New STI data shows increasingly complex picture of sexual health in England

26 March 2026 (Last updated: 26 Mar 2026 13:26)

Rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain high with emerging and increasingly complex conditions being a key concern of those working in sexual health.

Data published by UKHSA today does show a decrease in infectious syphilis diagnoses. While this is promising, rates are still very high and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV has stressed that there is still a lot more to do.

Gonorrhoea diagnoses also remain at historically high levels, and the continued increase in sexually transmitted shigella, and antibiotic‑resistant strains of both, represent growing public health concerns. The trends reinforce the importance of robust surveillance, clear public health messaging, and consistent access to specialist sexual health services for communities most affected.

Dr Cara Saxon, President of The British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) said:

“Today’s sexual health data contributes further to a picture of an increasing public health challenge. Any reduction in syphilis diagnoses is welcome, but we cannot be complacent and unacceptably high rates of gonorrhoea, antibiotic‑resistant infections, and increasing sexually transmitted shigella, demonstrate just some of the growing complexity and stark inequality we are seeing in sexual health.

The Syphilis Action Plan, also published this week, highlights the importance of evidence‑based and coordinated responses to evolving STI trends. We want the Government to grasp the opportunity of a new Sexual and Reproductive Health Framework to build on this, bringing it together with other initiatives and filling the gaps, so we can be enabled to meet the sexual health needs of all, in 2026 and beyond.”

We are experiencing the effects and consequences of under‑resourced services being asked to respond and deliver new interventions with less and less. This cannot continue. Sexual health services are at the forefront of surveillance, prevention, testing and care. They must be supported to deliver timely, high‑quality care if we are to address persistent health inequalities and reach the groups who need us most – with political will this is entirely achievable.”