The latest UKHSA data shows gonorrhoea rates are the highest since records began in 1918 and continuing to soar, confirming the threat that drug-resistant strains pose. 

Here’s our Chief Executive  on why funding and a vaccination programme are essential in turning the tide.

Richard Angell, Chief Executive at Terrence Higgins Trust, said: “The latest UKHSA data is a reminder of what we already knew – gonorrhoea rates in England are the highest since records began in 1918 and continuing to soar. It is further confirmation of the threat that drug-resistant gonorrhoea poses.

It is no surprise that the lowest spending on sexual health has led to the highest rates of sexually transmitted infections. Without funding as well as a national strategy for the future of sexual health, this growing crisis will not be tackled.

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) have approved a vaccine for gonorrhoea but this is yet to be rolled out. It’s time for the government to right this wrong. The introduction of a MenB vaccination programme to prevent gonorrhoea would be a world first - we can and must lead the way on this."