BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM
In a world-first public health move, gonorrhoea vaccines are now available in sexual health clinics across the UK. The program, launched on Monday, August 4th, aims to curb record-breaking infection rates and slow the rise of antibiotic-resistant cases.
Initially, the jabs will be offered to those at highest risk, particularly gay and bisexual men with a history of multiple partners or previous sexually transmitted infections. NHS England predicts the rollout could prevent up to 100,000 cases over the next decade, saving nearly £8 million ($10.8 million) in treatment costs.
Richard Angell, chief executive of the Terrence Higgins Trust, called the vaccine “a remarkable addition to our toolkit on sexual health” and described the rollout as “a huge win.”
Understanding the infection — and the urgency
Gonorrhoea, caused by a bacterial infection spread through unprotected sex, can lead to pain, unusual discharge, inflammation, and even infertility. Alarmingly, some people show no symptoms at all. In 2023, the UK recorded over 85,000 cases, the highest figure since records began almost a century ago.
Doctors are increasingly concerned about antibiotic-resistant strains, making prevention all the more urgent. While condoms remain an effective defence, the NHS now recommends that eligible people accept the vaccine if offered.
A meningitis jab with a surprising second use
The gonorrhoea vaccine being used, known as 4CMenB, was originally designed to protect babies against meningitis B. The bacteria behind meningitis and gonorrhoea are closely related, and the jab has proven 30 to 40 percent effective in preventing the latter.
Dr. Amanda Doyle, NHS national director for primary care and community services, urged those eligible to get vaccinated, saying it is a way to “keep each other safe” and a “real step forward for sexual health.”
Personal stories of protection
For some, the vaccine offers peace of mind alongside other preventive measures. Joey Knock, 35, paid £220 ($298) for a private course in February 2024 before travelling to a festival. He says it “helps knowing that I’m taking control of my sexual health” and views it as an extra tool alongside PrEP for HIV, DoxyPep antibiotics, and occasional condom use.
Matthew, 63, from East Scotland, was diagnosed with gonorrhoea a decade ago and developed reactive arthritis, a painful condition that has left lasting damage to some of his fingers and toes. The experience has kept him on constant alert for symptoms. He hopes to be among the first to get the vaccine this time, both for his own safety and that of his partners. “You’re not just protecting yourself, you’re protecting your partners,” he said.
How to access the vaccine
People who think they might be eligible are encouraged to contact their local sexual health clinic. The NHS hopes the programme will not only protect individuals but also ease pressure on increasingly busy sexual health services.
