Gonorrhoea Vaccine Appointments Now Available

Introduction to the Gonorrhoea Vaccination Programme

A new vaccination programme targeting gonorrhoea is set to launch across Northern Ireland in August, with eligible individuals encouraged to book appointments now. This initiative aims to address a growing public health concern, particularly among high-risk groups.

Eligibility Criteria for the Vaccine

The primary focus of the programme is on gay and bisexual men who have a recent history of multiple sexual partners or have recently been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI). These groups are identified as being at higher risk due to the increasing prevalence of gonorrhoea within this demographic.

According to the Public Health Agency (PHA), gonorrhoea has become the most commonly diagnosed STI in sexual health clinics across Northern Ireland. This trend is not unique to Northern Ireland, as England will also begin its vaccination rollout in August of this year.

The Role of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation

In November 2023, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) recommended the roll-out of the vaccine following a significant increase in gonorrhoea cases. This decision was made to mitigate the spread of the disease and protect those most vulnerable.

Rachel Spiers, Immunisation and Vaccination Programme Manager at the PHA, highlighted that approximately eight out of ten gonorrhoea infections occur in men. She emphasized that by offering the vaccine to high-risk groups, it will not only protect them but also help reduce the overall spread of the disease.

The Vaccine: A Meningococcal B Vaccine

The vaccine being used for this initiative is an existing one, known as 4CMenB, which is primarily used to prevent meningococcal B disease. Research conducted by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) suggests that receiving this jab could offer up to 40% protection against gonorrhoea. Additionally, it may play a role in addressing antibiotic-resistant strains of the disease, which have become increasingly challenging to treat.

Availability and Access

The vaccine will be available through Genitourinary Medicine (GUM) clinics operated by regional Health and Social Care Trusts. This ensures that the vaccine is accessible to those who need it most, particularly in areas where gonorrhoea rates are highest.

Rising Cases of Gonorrhoea in Northern Ireland

Data from the PHA indicates a sharp rise in gonorrhoea diagnoses since 2022. In 2022, there were 1,606 reported cases, which was two and a half times higher than the previous year. This high level of diagnosis continued into 2023. Although there was a slight decline in 2024, with 1,208 cases recorded, the overall trend remains concerning.

Understanding Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea is a bacterial infection that spreads easily through unprotected sexual contact. It can affect both men and women, though many individuals may not experience any symptoms.

• About one in 10 infected men and nearly half of infected women may not show any signs of infection.
• If left untreated, the infection can lead to serious complications, including infertility and other long-term health issues.
• It can also be passed from a pregnant woman to her baby during childbirth, potentially causing permanent blindness in the newborn if not treated promptly.

It is important to note that gonorrhoea is not transmitted through non-sexual contact such as hugging or sharing personal items like toilet seats, towels, cups, or plates. Even after successful treatment, individuals can still contract the infection again, highlighting the importance of ongoing prevention efforts.