Starting August 2025, Northern Ireland will roll out its first vaccination programme to help combat the growing rates of gonorrhoea, the region’s most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). The initiative will target gay and bisexual men who have recently had multiple partners or been diagnosed with an STI.
The vaccine being used, 4CMenB, was originally developed to protect against meningococcal B disease. Research from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) suggests it may also offer up to 40% protection against gonorrhoea, including antibiotic-resistant strains.
Similar vaccination efforts will begin in England this August, focusing on the same high-risk groups. This follows recommendations from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), which highlighted a sharp increase in gonorrhoea cases.
Northern Ireland’s Health Minister Mike Nesbitt described the campaign as a “timely and targeted” response, aiming to reduce transmission rates and safeguard public health. Chief Medical Officer Sir Michael McBride also emphasized the broader public health benefits, stating it could lead to fewer severe and clustered cases of the disease.
Public Health Agency figures reveal a significant rise in gonorrhoea infections, with cases jumping from 652 in 2021 to over 1,600 in 2022. Most affected are men, particularly those who have sex with men.
Gonorrhoea can be asymptomatic but may lead to serious complications like infertility. It’s passed through unprotected sex, not casual contact or shared items.
Health officials are urging all eligible individuals to accept the vaccine when offered.
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Announcement imminent on NI gonorrhoea vaccinations
World-first gonorrhoea vaccine launched by NHS England as infections soar