Two sexually transmitted diseases, gonorrhea and syphilis, have reached record highs in Europe, according to new health data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Over 106,000 gonorrhea cases were reported in 2024, a 303% jump since 2015, while syphilis cases more than doubled to 45,000. Congenital syphilis, transmitted from parent to baby during pregnancy, nearly doubled in just one year.
Why Are Cases Rising?
Experts attribute the surge to changing sexual habits, reduced condom use, increased number of sexual partners, dating apps, and gaps in testing. While improved testing explains part of the rise, complacency about bacterial STIs, which are often seen as easily treatable, has also played a role. Antibiotic-resistant strains of gonorrhea are emerging, raising concerns about future superbugs.
Gonorrhea: Early Signs and Risks
Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae and spreads through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Many people show no symptoms, but when they occur, they include painful urination, unusual discharge, pelvic pain, rectal discomfort, and sore throat. Untreated gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and chronic pain.
Syphilis: What to Watch For
Syphilis, caused by Treponema pallidum, is known as the great imitator because its symptoms mimic other diseases. Early signs include painless sores, rashes, swollen lymph nodes, fever, and fatigue. Without treatment, syphilis can damage the brain, heart, and nerves, leading to blindness, paralysis, or death.
Prevention Strategies
- Use condoms consistently during vaginal, oral, and anal sex to reduce the risk of transmission.
- Get tested regularly, especially if you have new or multiple partners. Many infections are asymptomatic.
- Seek medical care immediately if you notice symptoms like discharge, sores, or rashes.
- Prenatal screening is crucial for pregnant individuals to prevent congenital syphilis.
Treatment and Management
Both infections are treatable with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Gonorrhea is treated with injectable or oral medications, while syphilis requires penicillin, especially in early stages. Self-medication is not recommended. Partner notification is essential to break the chain of transmission.
What Lies Ahead?
The ECDC emphasizes that addressing the surge requires updated sexual health policies, easier access to testing, stronger awareness campaigns, and reduced stigma. The pandemic disrupted screening and changed dating habits, contributing to the current spike. As STIs continue to rise, testing, prevention, and open conversations about sexual health are more critical than ever.
