From August 2025, the NHS will begin offering a new vaccine to help protect against gonorrhoea, in a world-first public health programme aimed at reducing rising STI rates and antibiotic resistance.
The vaccine will be available through sexual health clinics, including those serving Andover and surrounding areas, and will be offered to people who are most at risk – such as gay and bisexual men who have recently had multiple sexual partners or a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Why Is This Important?
- Gonorrhoea is the second most common STI in England.
- Cases have tripled since 2012, with over 85,000 people diagnosed in 2023.
- If not treated, it can cause serious health problems – and some strains are becoming harder to treat with antibiotics.
The vaccine – already used to prevent meningitis – has been shown to reduce the risk of gonorrhoea by up to 40%.
What to Expect
Eligible people will be contacted directly by local sexual health services and invited to get vaccinated.
At the same time, they may also be offered other vaccinations, including:
- Mpox (Monkeypox)
- Hepatitis A and B
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
The vaccination is free and part of the NHS’s plan to improve public health and reduce STI transmission.
How Can I Stay Protected?
Even if you’re not eligible for the vaccine, the best way to protect yourself and others is to:
- Use condoms with new or casual partners
- Get regular STI checks
- Contact your GP or local clinic if you have any concerns
You can find information about sexual health services in Andover on the NHS website or by speaking to your GP.
Know the Symptoms
Gonorrhoea can sometimes have no symptoms. When they do appear, they may include:
- Pain when peeing
- Unusual discharge
- Pain or swelling in the testicles or lower stomach
This programme is the first of its kind in the world, and it’s another example of the NHS leading the way in public health.
We’ll share updates on how Andover residents can access the vaccine as more information becomes available.