Gonorrhoea and infectious syphilis STI diagnoses in England have hit record levels, according to latest figures. ‍‍

Sky News reports a concerning surge in gonorrhoea and syphilis diagnoses in England, as per data from the UK's Health Security Agency (UKHSA). In 2022, gonorrhoea cases surged by 50.3%, reaching a total of 82,592, marking the highest number since records began in 1918. Syphilis diagnoses also climbed, totaling 8,692 in the same year.

Dr. Hamish Mohammed, a consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, expressed his concerns, stating, "We saw more gonorrhoea diagnoses in 2022 than ever before, with large increases, especially among young individuals. STIs aren't just an inconvenience; they can profoundly affect your health and that of your sexual partners. Condoms offer the best protection, but if you didn't use one the last time you engaged in sexual activity with a new or casual partner, getting tested is crucial to detect potential infections early and prevent their spread. Testing is vital, as STIs can often remain asymptomatic."

Councillor David Fothergill raised alarm bells about the strain on local council-commissioned sexual health services, stating, "These new statistics continue to show that local council-commissioned sexual health services are at risk of breaking point, with increasing demand coinciding with real-term funding cuts."

These statistics underscore the importance of raising awareness about safe sexual practices and the need for adequate resources to combat the rising trend of sexually transmitted infections in England. It is crucial for individuals to prioritise regular testing and practicing safe sex to protect their health and that of their partners. The surge in cases serves as a reminder of the need for increased support for sexual health services and comprehensive sex education to combat this growing public health concern effectively.