World's first gonorrhoea vaccination programme approved for NI roll-out this summer
Research shows that the vaccine could offer up to 40% protection against infection and help tackle increasing levels of antibiotic restraint against the bacteria, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt encouraged anyone eligible for the vaccine to get it in order to protect themselves and others.
'With gonorrhoea cases rising, the launch of this world-first vaccine programme is important and very timely for Northern Ireland's public health,' he said.
'By targeting those most at risk, we have an opportunity to curb the spread and reduce transmission rates from this complex disease, and to prevent thousands of cases over the next few years.
'STIs aren't just an inconvenience, they can seriously impact on your health and that of any sexual partners. If you are offered the vaccine, I strongly encourage you take it, it is an important step to protect yourself and others.'
The vaccine will be administered by local Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) through GUM clinics. x
It follows advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) in November 2023, which recommended commencing roll out of the vaccine following an upsurge in gonorrhoea diagnoses
Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Michael McBride said: 'The introduction of the vaccination programme will have significant public health benefits for both those who receive the vaccine, and the wider population.
'The programme has the potential to result in less patients presenting with more complex cases and clusters of gonorrhoea. I would encourage all of those eligible to take up the vaccine when offered later in the year.'
Gonorrhoea is a bacterial STI caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium. Gonorrhoea is transmitted through unprotected sex or genital contact with an infected partner – even if an infected person has no symptoms the infection can still be transmitted.
It is now the most commonly diagnosed bacterial STI in NI.
Around 8 out of 10 infections occur in men with gay and bisexual men most commonly affected.
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