Gonorrhoea vaccine information

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. It is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in Lambeth. If untreated, infection can lead to pain in the testicles, prostate and lower belly. It also can increase the risk of infertility and pregnancy complications.

The vaccine to protect against gonorrhoea will be offered to gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) and people who have been assessed as being at increased risk of coming into contact with gonorrhoea. The offer will apply to those who have had a:

• recent history of multiple sexual partners
• bacterial STI in the last 12 months 

Gonorrhoea rates are rising in many south east London boroughs, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious health issues such as pain in the testicles, prostate, and lower abdomen, as well as increased risks of infertility and pregnancy complications.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) research shows that those who receive the jab could be protected from the STI by up to 40% and it could help tackle levels of antibiotic-resistant strains of the disease. Gay, bisexual and men who have sex with men are commonly affected, so by offering the vaccine to those most at risk it will not only help to protect them against infection but will also help to reduce onward transmission.

Sexual health clinics may also offer the vaccine to others that they assess as being at increased risk of coming into contact with gonorrhoea. This may include those involved in selling or exchanging sex without using condoms.

South east London clinics offering the vaccine