Europe's STI Crisis Reaches Breaking Point as Gonorrhoea Cases Explode 303% and Congenital Syphilis Nearly Doubles

Sexually transmitted infections hit record levels across Europe in 2024, according to new data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Gonorrhoea cases surged 303% since 2015 to 106,331, while syphilis more than doubled to 45,577 cases. Chlamydia remained the most reported STI at 213,443 cases. Congenital syphilis cases nearly doubled from 78 in 2023 to 140 in 2024 across 14 reporting countries, reflecting rising syphilis rates among women of reproductive age. Men who have sex with men remain the most disproportionately affected group. The ECDC is calling for urgent, targeted prevention and testing action.

In-Depth:

European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) press release

New data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) display that sexually transmitted infections (STIs) reached record levels across Europe in 2024, driven by sharp rises in gonorrhoea and syphilis, and widening gaps in testing and prevention. Tarreceiveed action is urgently necessaryed to prevent further spread, including among women of reproductive age.

The data for 2024 display that gonorrhoea cases reached 106 331, representing a 303% increase since 2015. Syphilis cases more than doubled over the same period to 45 577 cases. Chlamydia remains the most frequently reported STI with 213 443 cases. Lymphogranuloma venereum also continued to see ongoing transmission, with 3 490 reported cases.

Transmission trfinishs vary significantly across different population groups. Men who have sex with men remain the most disproportionately affected group, with the steepest long‑term increases in gonorrhoea and syphilis. Among heterosexual populations, syphilis is rising, particularly among women of reproductive age, the consequences of which are a near doubling of congenital syphilis cases from 78 in 2023 to 140 in 2024 across 14 countries reporting data.