By Rareview News Report
Europe is witnessing a sharp resurgence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with reported cases of gonorrhoea and syphilis reaching their highest levels in more than a decade, prompting renewed warnings from health authorities over widening gaps in prevention and testing.
New data released by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) showed that gonorrhoea cases climbed to 106,331 in 2024, representing a 303 per cent increase since 2015, while syphilis infections more than doubled over the same period to 45,577 cases. Chlamydia remained the most frequently reported STI, with 213,443 confirmed cases across Europe.
“Sexually transmitted infections have been on the rise for 10 years and reached record high levels in 2024,” said Bruno Ciancio of the ECDC.
“Untreated, these infections can cause severe complications, such as chronic pain and infertility and, in the case of syphilis, problems with the heart or nervous system,” he warned.
Particularly troubling for health authorities is the rise in congenital syphilis, with reported cases almost doubling from 78 in 2023 to 140 in 2024.
“Targeted action is urgently needed to prevent further spread, including among women of reproductive age,” the ECDC stated.
Health authorities have linked the trend to reduced condom use, behavioural changes, gaps in testing access and delayed diagnoses.
“Protecting your sexual health remains straightforward,” Ciancio said.
“Use condoms with new or multiple partners, and get tested if you have symptoms, such as pain, discharge or an ulcer.”
The latest figures are expected to intensify calls for stronger sexual health campaigns, expanded screening programmes and improved access to preventive services across Europe.