The Department of Health has approved the roll out of a targeted vaccination programme against gonorrhoea in Northern Ireland.
From August, eligible patients, which includes gay and bisexual men who have a recent history of multiple sexual partners or a sexually transmitted infection (STI), will start to be offered the vaccine.
This 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.
UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) research shows that people who receive the jab – an existing vaccine for meningococcal B disease, 4CMenB – could be protected from gonorrhoea by up to 40% and help tackle the increasing levels of antibiotic resistant strains of the disease.
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said: “With gonorrhoea cases rising, the launch of this world-first vaccine programme is important and very timely for Northern Ireland’s public health.
“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.”
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.”
The vaccine will be administered by local Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) through GUM clinics. For more information visit here – Visiting Genitourinary Medicine (GUM) clinic – Sexual Health NI.
