Europe sees sharp rise in sexually transmitted infections

Data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) indicates a sharp rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) across Europe following a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2024, gonorrhea cases reached approximately 100,000, more than triple the figures recorded in 2015. Syphilis cases have also doubled, reaching roughly 46,000. Chlamydia remains an exception, with rates returning to near-2015 levels after peaking in 2022.

Stela Bivol, head of the STI unit at the World Health Organization's regional office for Europe, stated that the increase reflects a real rise in transmission rather than just improved diagnostic capabilities. Experts suggest several contributing factors, including decreased condom use and the potential impact of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV, which may lead some individuals to reduce reliance on barrier methods.

Monitoring challenges persist in certain regions. In Romania, for instance, only 24 cases of chlamydia were reported in 2024, a figure considered improbably low for a population of 19 million. Health experts warn that inadequate data collection can hinder investments in testing programs and public awareness, emphasizing the need for enhanced surveillance and regular screening.