STI Cases in Europe Hit a Decade High — Gonorrhoea Up 303%, Congenital Syphilis Nearly Doubled

The rate of sexually transmitted infections in Europe has reached record levels. According to the latest report from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), based on 2024 data, gonorrhoea and syphilis cases have reached their highest levels in a decade.

Gonorrhoea cases rose by 303% since 2015, reaching 106,331 cases. Syphilis infections doubled over the same period, reaching 45,577 cases. Chlamydia remains the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI), with 213,443 cases recorded. A further 3,490 cases of lymphogranuloma venereum were also reported. Of particular concern is the near doubling of congenital syphilis — transmitted from mother to child — between 2023 and 2024, which can lead to lifelong complications.

The most affected group is men who have sex with men, who show the most pronounced long-term increase in gonorrhoea and syphilis cases. Among heterosexual partners, the rise of syphilis in women of reproductive age is a particular cause for concern.

According to ECDC section head Bruno Ciancio, these infections can lead to chronic pain, infertility, and, in the case of syphilis, heart or neurological problems. "Protecting sexual health is still straightforward: use condoms with new or multiple partners, and get tested if you develop symptoms — pain, discharge or a sore," the specialist said.

The ECDC is calling for urgent updates to national STI control strategies, expanded access to testing, faster treatment, and improved partner notification systems to curb transmission.