T4K3.news

Bolton and Bury launch gonorrhoea vaccine program

MenB vaccine rollout begins today in Greater Manchester to combat rising gonorrhoea cases.

August 1, 2025 at 04:24 AM

Bolton and Bury to roll out vaccine programme to prevent gonorrhoea

A new vaccination program in Greater Manchester aims to curb rising gonorrhoea rates.

Bolton and Bury launch groundbreaking gonorrhoea vaccine initiative

Bolton and Bury are set to introduce a new vaccination program targeting gonorrhoea, making Greater Manchester one of the first regions in the UK to offer the MenB vaccine for this purpose. The initiative responds to alarming statistics, with 85,000 cases of gonorrhoea reported in England in 2024, a number that has tripled since 2012. In Greater Manchester alone, over 4,000 infections were recorded. The MenB vaccine, already used for meningitis, has been shown to reduce gonorrhoea risk by up to 40%. Eligible individuals include gay and bisexual men with multiple partners and those diagnosed with STIs. NHS officials emphasize the importance of this program in combatting antibiotic-resistant strains of gonorrhoea as well as promoting overall sexual health. The vaccination is available starting today, with full rollout expected by September 1, 2025.

Key Takeaways

✔️

Greater Manchester leads UK with new gonorrhoea vaccine initiative.

✔️

Vaccination addresses tripled cases of gonorrhoea since 2012.

✔️

MenB vaccine shown to reduce gonorrhoea risk by up to 40%.

✔️

Eligible individuals include high-risk gay and bisexual men.

✔️

Program aims to combat antibiotic-resistant strains of gonorrhoea.

✔️

Vaccine rollout available by September 1, 2025, enhancing sexual health services.

"It’s amazing to be part of the launch of a world-first vaccination for gonorrhoea."

Jim Ritchie, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, highlights the groundbreaking nature of the initiative.

"This vaccine program is important for helping to keep people safe."

Jim Ritchie underlines the initiative's significance in promoting safety and health among at-risk groups.

This vaccination initiative marks a significant step in public health, addressing a critical rise in sexually transmitted infections, particularly among vulnerable populations. The emphasis on a multifaceted approach to sexual health—combining vaccination, regular testing, and condom use—illustrates a proactive strategy against the growing threat of antibiotic-resistant infections. As healthcare providers highlight the importance of this vaccine, it could lead to broader discussions on sexual health education and access in communities.

Highlights

A world-first vaccination initiative for gonorrhoea begins today.
This program marks a critical step in protecting sexual health.
Greater Manchester is leading the way in STI prevention efforts.
Taking action against rising rates of gonorrhoea is vital for community health.

Concerns over rising STI rates and vaccine accessibility

The introduction of the MenB vaccine comes amid rising gonorrhoea cases, raising concerns about public awareness and vaccine access. Effective communication about this program is crucial to ensure uptake among eligible populations.

As this program unfolds, its impact on public health will be closely monitored.

🏷️

vaccine gonorrhoea healthcare public health Greater Manchester health public health community

Enjoyed this? Let your friends know!