Bermuda: Gonorrhoea rates triple

The Ministry of Health has warned the public about sexually transmitted infections after a “notable increase” of gonorrhoea.

It said gonorrhoea rates had tripled compared with previous years and there have also been increases of chlamydia, herpes and syphilis.

A spokesman said: “The increase in reported gonorrhoea cases began in April, with more cases being reported weekly.

“As of June 9, there have been 37 cases reported. In the last five years, an average of 11 cases were reported in the same time period.”

About 65 per cent of the new cases are reported in female patients, while the average age of those infected is 30.

The spokesman also warned: “There is evidence that a strain of gonorrhoea seen locally may be resistant to treatment by one of the most common antibiotics.

“If your symptoms continue for more than a few days after receiving treatment, you should return to a healthcare provider to be checked again.” Read more via Royal Gazette