Syphilis and Gonorrhea Cases Reach Record Highs in Europe
Bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have reached record levels across Europe, prompting official health agencies to issue urgent warnings. Recent data indicates that syphilis and gonorrhea are making a significant comeback, with reporting numbers more than tripling over the last decade.
According to figures from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), these infections hit record highs in 2024. This trend signals a persistent and widespread distribution of these diseases across multiple countries.
A Decade of Rapid Growth
The scale of the increase is stark. In 2024, there were 106,331 registered cases of gonorrhea across the EU and EEA, representing a 303 percent increase compared to 2015.
Syphilis has followed a similar trajectory. Reported infections more than doubled during the same period, reaching 45,577 cases. The ECDC notes that these are the highest levels seen in more than ten years.
Who Is Most Affected?
While men who have sex with men have been the hardest-hit group for years, health services are observing other worrying trends. There is a clear increase in syphilis among heterosexual women of childbearing age.
This shift has had severe consequences for newborns, as cases of congenital syphilis have nearly doubled. Geographic hotspots are also evident, with Spain recording over 37,000 gonorrhea cases and more than 11,500 syphilis infections in 2024.
In the Netherlands, the organization Soa Aids Nederland reports that STI numbers have been rising for several years in a row.
The Drivers Behind the Surge
Experts attribute the rise to a combination of behavioral and systemic factors. A decrease in condom use and the spread of misinformation regarding STI risks on social media have played significant roles.
Systemic failures are also a primary concern. Long-term underinvestment in testing and treatment facilities has left many without access to care. In the Netherlands, Soa Aids Nederland points to tight budgets for GGD sexual health centres, which prevents them from serving everyone in need.
physicians warn against the use of unreliable online home tests. These can provide falsely reassuring results, leading individuals to unknowingly continue infecting others.
Long-Term Health Consequences
The danger of these infections extends beyond immediate symptoms. Without timely medical intervention, both gonorrhea and syphilis can lead to severe, permanent health issues.
Potential complications include chronic pain and infertility. In more severe cases, these infections may cause serious problems affecting the heart or the nervous system.
The Path Toward Containment
The ECDC is calling for “decisive action” from member countries. This includes increasing the volume of testing and launching targeted campaigns to reach vulnerable groups and young people.
National health services are also recommending broad new campaigns to increase STI awareness and encourage the consistent use of condoms.
How to Protect Yourself
Health officials recommend using condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex to significantly reduce the risk of infection. Because STIs often present no symptoms, waiting for signs of illness can lead to permanent damage.
Individuals should seek testing via a GP or the GGD if they have symptoms, have had unprotected sex, or are notified that a partner has tested positive.
For those under 25, sex workers, men who have sex with men, or other high-risk groups, free and anonymous testing is available at the GGD. If using home tests, it is critical to choose reputable providers and always confirm any positive or doubtful result with a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the risks of leaving gonorrhea or syphilis untreated?
Untreated infections can lead to chronic pain, infertility, and severe problems with the heart or nervous system.
Why are home tests considered risky by some doctors?
Some online home tests are unreliable and may provide false reassurance, causing people to remain unaware of their infection and continue spreading it to others.
Who is eligible for free, anonymous STI testing at the GGD?
Free and anonymous tests are available for people under 25, men who have sex with men, sex workers, and other designated risk groups.
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