UKHSA continues to recommend 4CMenB vaccine against gonorrhoea in gay men

UKHSA continues to recommend 4CMenB vaccine against gonorrhoea in gay men

June 19, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Health

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) published guidance on May 31, 2026, regarding the continued use of the 4CMenB vaccine to reduce gonorrhoea incidence in gay and bisexual men. This follows the Australian GoGoVax trial, which failed to show protection in nearly 600 participants presented at CROI 2026.

Why did the UKHSA issue new guidance?

UKHSA issued the guidance after results from the large Australian GoGoVax trial were presented at CROI 2026. The trial randomized almost 600 gay and bisexual men to receive either the vaccine or a placebo.

According to the trial results, the vaccine failed to show any protection against gonorrhoea. This data prompted the need for updated guidance on the sexual health programme.

Did You Know? The GoGoVax trial is the third randomized controlled trial to show no benefit for the 4CMenB vaccine in this context.

Is the 4CMenB vaccine effective against gonorrhoea?

Scientific opinion remains divided on the vaccine’s efficacy. Many scientists believe the GoGoVax data provides conclusive evidence that the vaccine lacks effect.

From Instagram — related to Expert Insight, Samantha Carter

Other researchers, including the study presenter, suggest a more cautious approach. They point to observational studies that have shown small but significant benefits. Read the full report here.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the tension here lies between different types of evidence. While randomized controlled trials are generally seen as the gold standard for proving a lack of effect, the persistence of positive observational data creates a complex decision for health officials.

What could happen next for the vaccine programme?

Future actions may depend on the results of other ongoing studies. Some scientists hope these upcoming results could support the findings of previous observational studies.

Depending on that data, the programme’s trajectory may change. A possible next step involves waiting for these results before determining if the lack of effect is definitive.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the UKHSA guidance published?

The guidance was published on May 31, 2026.

When was the UKHSA guidance published?

What were the results of the GoGoVax trial?

The trial, which included almost 600 gay and bisexual men, failed to show any protection provided by the vaccine compared to a placebo.

Why is there a debate among scientists about the vaccine?

Some scientists view the three randomized controlled trials showing no benefit as conclusive, while others believe observational studies showing small benefits warrant further investigation of ongoing studies.

Do you believe observational data should influence health guidance when randomized trials show no benefit?