Record levels of gonorrhoea and syphilis were recorded last year according to data published today by the UK Health Security Agency.
According to The BBC:
England is seeing record high levels of gonorrhoea and syphilis sexually transmitted infections, following a dip during Covid years, new figures reveal.
People are being urged to practice safe sex to protect themselves and get tested if they may be at risk.
There were 82,592 cases of gonorrhoea in 2022 – up 50% on the 54,661 recorded the year before, says the UK Health Security Agency
Syphilis cases increased by 15% from 7,543 to 8,692.
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People aged 15-24 remain most likely to be diagnosed with STIs. In 2022, there were over 400 diagnoses of STIs made each day among young people.
The UKHSA is reminding everyone having sex with new or casual partners to wear a condom and get tested regularly – whatever their age or sexual orientation.
Testing is free and confidential and you should get tested even if you are not showing any symptoms, officials said.
Though STIs are usually easily treated with antibiotics, many can cause serious health issues if left untreated.
Chlamydia and gonorrhoea can cause infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease, while syphilis can cause serious, irreversible and potentially life-threatening problems with your brain, heart, or nerves.
Dr Hamish Mohammed, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “We saw more gonorrhoea diagnoses in 2022 than ever before, with large rises, particularly in young people. STIs aren’t just an inconvenience – they can have a major impact on your health and that of any sexual partners.
Condoms are the best defence, but if you didn’t use one the last time you had sex with a new or casual partner, get tested to detect any potential infections early and prevent passing them on to others. Testing is important because you may not have any symptoms of an STI.”