Zurich, 21 May 2026
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported record high cases of sexually transmitted infections in 2024, with syphilis and gonorrhea rates more than doubling since 2015.
In 2024, Europe saw a significant surge in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with gonorrhea cases increasing by 303% since 2015, reaching 106,331 cases. Syphilis cases also more than doubled, totaling 45,577 cases, according to the latest ECDC data.
Chlamydia remained the most commonly reported STI, with 213,443 cases in 2024. Men who have sex with men were identified as the most affected group, particularly for gonorrhea and syphilis.
Benjamin Hampel, a doctor at Checkpoint Zürich, noted that increased testing is a primary reason for the rise in reported STI cases. 'The main reason for the increase is not necessarily a higher spread of infections,' Hampel said. 'More testing is being done.'
Key Statistics
The ECDC has recommended regular testing for risk groups, especially those with multiple sexual partners, for about a decade. Increased testing has been particularly effective among homosexual and bisexual men.
Despite these efforts, the use of condoms in Europe has been declining, contributing to the spread of STIs. Young people in Europe are also having less sexual intercourse than in the past, according to recent studies.
A concerning trend is the near doubling of syphilis cases transmitted from mother to child, from 78 cases in 2023 to 140 cases in 2024 across 14 reporting countries.
Risk Groups and Testing
The ECDC emphasizes the need for easier access to tests, faster treatment, and better notification of sexual partners to curb the spread of STIs. However, in Switzerland, STI tests without symptoms must be paid for privately and can be expensive.
Overuse of antibiotics for STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea has led to resistance, further complicating treatment efforts. The ECDC warns that this could exacerbate the spread of these diseases.
Hampel also highlighted a paradox in sexual behavior: 'People want the full sexual experience but without risk.' He cautioned against using fear as a means of prevention, noting it only works for those already anxious.
Challenges in Prevention
The reduction of fear around sex is seen as a positive development by Hampel, but it comes with challenges in STI prevention. Public health campaigns continue to stress the importance of safe sex practices.
The ECDC's findings underscore the need for comprehensive sexual health education and accessible testing to address the rising STI rates. Without significant intervention, these trends are likely to continue.
In response to the surge, health authorities are calling for increased funding for sexual health services and broader public awareness campaigns. The goal is to reduce stigma and encourage more people to get tested.
Call to Action
The record-high STI cases in 2024 highlight a pressing public health issue that requires immediate attention. Experts urge individuals to practice safe sex and seek regular testing to protect their health and that of their partners.