-
Who will be targeted in the rollout?
The gonorrhoea vaccine rollout will primarily target high-risk groups, including gay and bisexual men. This focus aims to effectively reach those most vulnerable to infection and help curb the rising rates of gonorrhoea in the UK.
-
Why is this vaccine important now?
The urgency for this vaccine stems from a significant rise in gonorrhoea cases, which reached over 85,000 in 2023, the highest on record. Additionally, there is a growing concern over antibiotic resistance, particularly with ceftriaxone-resistant gonorrhoea cases increasing. The vaccine is seen as a crucial step in addressing these public health challenges.
-
What are the expected outcomes of this public health effort?
The expected outcomes of the gonorrhoea vaccine initiative include a substantial reduction in infection rates, with projections suggesting it could prevent over 100,000 cases in the next decade. The initiative aims to improve sexual health and reduce the burden of antibiotic-resistant infections.
-
How effective is the gonorrhoea vaccine?
The gonorrhoea vaccine, derived from an existing meningococcal B jab, is expected to provide between 32.7% to 42% effectiveness against gonorrhoea. While this may seem modest, it represents a significant advancement in the fight against rising infection rates.
-
What role does regular STI testing play in this initiative?
Regular STI testing is emphasized as a critical component of the gonorrhoea vaccine initiative. Health experts, including Dr. Hamish Mohammed from UKHSA, stress the importance of testing, especially for individuals engaging in condomless sex, to ensure early detection and treatment of infections.