Gonorrhea infections continue to increase. Summer is a vulnerable time and the infection is insidious. Many can carry gonorrhea without having noticeable symptoms.
The largest increase is seen among young adults, but cases are also seen among significantly older individuals.
During the first six months of the year, the number of gonorrhea cases has increased. Compared to the same period in 2023, the increase is around six percent, according to the Public Health Agency.
The increase is noticeable in both Sweden and other EU countries. During holiday periods, more people are also at risk of being infected.
Many have time for vacation, it's warm, feelings arise, and then it may be easier to meet partners, says Inga Velicko, unit manager at the Public Health Agency.
The largest and most intense increase is seen in the age group of young adults between 20 and 29 years. But there are also cases of infection in higher age groups, such as 30 to 39, 40 to 49, and 50 to 59.
It may be certain groups that are more sexually active. Those who are divorced and have a new life and meet new partners, but it's not common among older people, says Inga Velicko.
More should be tested
In 2020 and 2021, gonorrhea cases decreased, which according to the Public Health Agency, may have been a pandemic effect. Since 2022, the number has increased again, and last year it landed at over 4,000. To reduce the cases, more people need to get tested, according to Inga Velicko.
If you have traveled abroad and had sexual intercourse there, a test may be particularly important.
There is a higher probability that antibiotic-resistant bacteria exist abroad. Therefore, it is important to get tested after a trip abroad if you have had unprotected sex, so that you receive treatment and do not spread resistant bacteria further.
Many can also be infected without knowing it.
Gonorrhea is often asymptomatic. Therefore, it is so important to protect yourself with partners you don't know well. Even without symptoms, you can be infected.
To be limited in Gävleborg
In Gävleborg, local attempts will now be made to curb the spread of infection. The region has launched a campaign that will spread information about the disease during the summer.
Based on previous figures, it has been seen that sexually transmitted diseases increase during the summer, so we want to be prepared this year, says Sara Bylund, HIV/STI coordinator at Region Gävleborg.
In addition to spreading information, the region wants to make young adults aware of the possibility of testing themselves free of charge, by ordering a home testing kit. It is an opportunity that is also discreet for the patient, according to Sara Bylund.
You don't need to go to the healthcare system, and it can also mean that more people get tested, she says.
Gonorrhea is an infection caused by a bacterium. The infection can be transmitted through vaginal intercourse, anal intercourse, or oral sex.
The most common symptoms are burning when urinating, discharge, bleeding, or pain. But in many cases, gonorrhea is asymptomatic.
The best protection against gonorrhea is a condom.
Source: 1177
