Iceland Records Highest Number of Gonorrhoea Cases in 40 Years

Gonorrhoea Surges in Iceland

During the first nine months of this year, 283 people were diagnosed with gonorrhoea in Iceland, marking the highest number recorded in 40 years, ruv.is reported.

That figure represents an increase of nearly 20% compared to last year and a fivefold jump since 2021.

The total equates to 72 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. That rate sits considerably higher than the European average of 27 cases per 100,000 people, according to ruv.is.

Men Aged 30 and over Represent Most Cases

Of the individuals diagnosed during the first nine months, 249 were men, accounting for 88% of the total. Women made up the remaining 12%, with 34 diagnoses, ruv.is reported.

The largest increase this year has concentrated among men aged 30 and over. While patients span all age groups, the highest concentration of cases falls in the 30–44 age bracket, and 57% of those diagnosed hold Icelandic citizenship, according to ruv.is.

Chief Epidemiologist Warnings

Chief Epidemiologist Guðrún Aspelund said the reasons behind the record spread remain unclear. She emphasized that early diagnosis is critical to prevent further transmission, stating, But it’s important to detect it early, before people infect others. She added that the increase is concerning because the infection can cause serious health complications, as reported by ruv.is.

Guðrún also noted that the strain known as super gonorrhoea, which resists conventional antibiotics, has not yet appeared in Iceland. Fortunately, it hasn’t been detected here in Iceland so far, she said, according to ruv.is.

Transmission and Testing Details

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, spread through direct contact between mucous membranes during sexual activity, ruv.is reported. Mothers can also transmit the infection to babies during birth, leading to eye infections.

Symptoms typically appear one to seven days after exposure, though they can manifest later. Men often experience discomfort when urinating, while women frequently show no symptoms at all. The infection can target the genitals, urethra, rectum, throat, and eyes, potentially causing infertility if left untreated, according to ruv.is.

Where to Get Tested and How to Protect Yourself

Where can people get tested for gonorrhoea in Iceland?

Testing is available at primary healthcare centres as well as outpatient dermatology and sexually transmitted infection clinics, according to ruv.is.

What protection methods do health officials recommend?

Guðrún Aspelund stated that condoms provide the best protection against gonorrhoea, and she stressed the importance of seeking prompt treatment following a diagnosis, ruv.is reported.