Students are advised to use condoms during Freshers Week due to the continued high prevalence of a little-known STI. Recent data indicates a positive decline in gonorrhoea rates, an ancient STI mentioned in historical writings, but cases remain elevated. The UK Health Security Agency cautions students against engaging in unprotected sex.
Health professionals note that STIs are decreasing but remain prevalent, especially among individuals aged 15 to 24. In England, there were 71,802 gonorrhoea cases last year, double the number from a decade ago and significantly higher than in 2012.
The infection rate for gonorrhoea was 124.5 cases per 100,000 people in 2024, twice the rate from ten years prior. Despite a 16% reduction in cases in 2024, the numbers are still historically high, with certain regions, notably London, facing greater risks.
In Lambeth alone, 3,516 gonorrhoea diagnoses were reported last year, equating to 1,113.7 cases per 100,000 individuals. London dominated the list of areas with the highest infection rates, followed by other cities like Manchester, Brighton, Salford, Liverpool, and Nottingham.
Dr. Hamish Mohammed from UKHSA emphasizes the importance of using condoms to lower the risk of STIs among young people. Gonorrhoea has historical references dating back to ancient times, with various societies documenting symptoms and treatments for the disease.
Gonorrhoea, also known as “the clap,” can lead to serious complications if left untreated, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, infertility, and blindness. It is primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual contact but can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth.
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