Antibiotic Resistance Threatens Gonorrhea Treatment Worldwide
Geneva, Switzerland – Globally, gonorrhea is exhibiting increasing resistance to antibiotics, posing a significant threat to effective treatment of the sexually transmitted infection. Recent data reveals a concerning trend of diminishing antibiotic efficacy against Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacterium that causes gonorrhea.
Resistance to azithromycin,a commonly used antibiotic,has risen from 0.5% to 4% in tested samples. Similarly, resistance to cefixime, another first-line cephalosporin, increased from 1.7% to 11%. Alarmingly, 95% of Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates tested were found to be resistant to ciprofloxacin (cipro).
The World Health Association (WHO) has highlighted the urgent need for increased surveillance of antibiotic resistance patterns, especially in regions lacking the necessary resources. Tracking these trends is crucial to proactively address the evolving threat.
Though, there is emerging hope. Two new antibiotics – zoliflodacin and gepotidacin – have demonstrated success in clinical trials and may become available for treatment in the near future.
Despite these potential advancements, prevention and screening remain vital. gonorrhea is spread through infected bodily fluids, such as semen and cervical secretions.Consistent and correct condom use provides excellent protection against infection.
Additionally, Doxy PEP - post-exposure prophylaxis involving doxycycline taken after sexual contact – can offer some protection, reducing the risk of gonorrhea by approximately 50%. While less effective against gonorrhea than against chlamydia and syphilis, likely due to existing bacterial resistance, it represents another preventative measure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends yearly gonorrhea screening for:
* All sexually active women under 25
* Women 25 and older wiht risk factors including new or multiple sex partners, or a partner with an STI
* Men who have sex with men (MSM)
MSM with multiple, anonymous, or STI-affected partners should consider more frequent screening. Testing should encompass potential infection sites including the penis, throat, and anus.
