Gonorrhea Incidence Rates Research Articles

Self-Reported PrEP Use and Risk of Bacterial STIs Among Ontarian Men Who Are Gay or Bisexual or Have Sex With Men.

HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) may increase rates of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) through risk compensation (eg, an increase in condomless sex or number of partners); however, longitudinal studies exploring the time-dependent nature of PrEP uptake and bacterial STIs are limited. We used marginal structural models to estimate the effect of PrEP uptake on STI incidence. We analyzed data from the iCruise study, an online longitudinal study of 535 Ontarian GBM from July 2017 to April 2018, to estimate the effects of PrEP uptake on incidence of self-reported bacterial STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis) collected with 12 weekly diaries. The incidence rate was calculated as the number of infections per 100 person-months, with evaluation of the STIs overall and individually. We used marginal structural models to account for time-varying confounding and quantitative bias analysis to evaluate the sensitivity of estimates to nondifferential outcome misclassification. Participating GBM were followed up for a total of 1,623.5 person-months. Overall, 70 participants (13.1%) took PrEP during the study period. Relative to no uptake, PrEP uptake was associated with an increased incidence rate of gonorrhea (incidence rate ratio = 4.00; 95% CI, 1.67-9.58), but not of chlamydia or syphilis, and not of any bacterial STI overall. Accounting for misclassification, the median incidence rate ratio for gonorrhea was 2.36 (95% simulation interval, 1.08-5.06). We observed an increased incidence rate of gonorrhea associated with PrEP uptake among Ontarian GBM that was robust to misclassification. Although our findings support current guidelines for integrating gonorrhea screening with PrEP services, additional research should consider the long-term impact of PrEP among this population.Annals Early Access article.

Trends in vasectomy and sexually transmitted diseases in Chile: findings from robust national databases.

A controversy about the increase or decline of vasectomy is emerging; however, the evidence is still scarce in Latin America. This ecological study analyzed the vasectomy and sexual transmitted diseases (STD) trends over a period of 10 years in Chile and determined if there is any relationship between them. We conducted a mixed ecological study using secondary and representative data on the number of vasectomies and STD cases from 2008 to 2017. Vasectomy rates were calculated for age-specific groups of men aged 20-59 years, and specific STD (HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and syphilis) for the same period. Multivariate negative binomial regression models were fitted to evaluate rate trends and relationships. The mean vasectomy age was 40.3 years, with no significant differences between the years of the study (p = 0.058). The overall vasectomy rate significantly increased from 2008 to 2017 (p < 0.001), with differences between age groups (p < 0.001). The most significant increase was observed in men aged 30-49 (p < 0.001). The STD rates significantly increased (p < 0.05) during the study period. A significant positive correlation was found between vasectomy and gonorrhea incidence rates (p = 0.008) and an inverse correlation was found with hepatitis B incidence rates (p = 0.002). Vasectomy trends and STD rates significantly increased from 2018 to 2017 in Chile. especially among men aged 30-49 years. The relationship between vasectomy and STD increments suggests a new risk factor for reproductive and sexual health policies to aid controlling the HIV and STD epidemic.

Specifics of Epidemiological Anamnesis of Sexually Transmitted Diseases in High-Risk Groups

Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections induce inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs in women, infertility, infant and maternal mortality, and remain a global health challenge. Current studies are focused on examination and treatment of risk groups, including men who have sex with men, among whom the highest incidence rates of syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and other socially significant infections are usually registered. Objective: To establish epidemiological features of the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases in men who have sex with men as representatives of a high-risk group. Material and methods: Snowball sampling was used in our questionnaire-based survey that involved 136 men of reproductive age (18 to 49 years). The case study group included 79 men who have sex with men and the control group consisted of 57 heterosexual men. For statistical data analysis, we used Pearson’s chi-squared test and Fisher’s exact test. Results and discussion: The median age of the cases was 32 years and 25.3 % of them noted having bisexual relationships. Compared to the controls, the proportion of men who reported having more than 10 sexual partners over the previous year was statistically higher among the men having sex with other men (63.3 %). 81.0 % of the cases and 57.9 % of the controls reported having casual sexual relations. 50 % of the men who have sex with men had one or more sexually transmitted infections in the medical history, while this percentage was significantly lower in the controls. Conclusion: Men who have sex with men are typical representatives of groups at risk of sexually transmitted diseases due to numerous sexual partners and inherent risky sexual behavior.

2218. Spatial Epidemiology of Gonorrhea Incidence Among Women in Chicago

Abstract Background Neisseria gonorrhea is the second most prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the US with increasing incidence. Untreated, it leads to devastating sequelae for nonpregnant women, pregnant women, and their neonates. Geographic clustering of gonorrhea coincides with clustering of other risk factors and may help guide interventions. We utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software to map gonorrhea incidence among women in Chicago, and examine factors associated with the spatial distribution of infection. Methods Chicago Department of Public Health data sets and shape files were available through the Chicago Data Portal. ArcGIS was utilized for map illustrating and data analysis. Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) Regression was utilized using the dependent variable of Gonorrhea incidence in women per Chicago Community Area (CCA), with various explanatory variables. Within the OLS, the Koenker Statistic (KS) was reported and from this a Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) tool was run for combinations with statistically significant KS. Results The highest incidence is shown in the southern and western CCA’s, with hospitals clustered in the northern and southeastern CCA’s &amp; clinics with gaps primarily noted in the southern and northwestern CCA’s. (Figure 1.) Teen pregnancy incidence (TP), infant mortality (IM), and first trimester prenatal care, had statistical significance of the robust probability for all of their explanatory variables, and VIF’s less than 2 for all explanatory variables, JBS were not statistically significant, and AICc were approximately 1170 demonstrating stable OLS. (Figure 2&amp;3) TP &amp; IM did have a statistically significant KS and GWR was run demonstrating random spatial pattern. This confirms TP &amp; IM as predictors for gonorrheal incidence had variable predictability throughout the CCA’s and GWR improves the model outcome. Both combinations spatially explain gonorrhea incidence. Map of Gonorrhea Incidence among Females in 2006-2010 Figure 1:The data of the incidence of gonorrhea in females was mapped with 5 separate classifications created and displayed in the form of a map. Also included on the map were hospitals in the city, and Chicago Department of Public Health clinic locations where free STI management could take place. illustrates gonorrhea incidence rates (per 100,000) within the 77 Chicago Community Areas (CCA) of the city. The darker shades of green correspond with higher incidence. The highest incidence is shown to be greatest in the southern and western CCA’s. Also illustrated are the locations of the hospitals within the city in addition to CDPH clinics that are Federally Qualified Health Clinics (FQHC) that offer services for treatment at a reduced or free cost depending on health insurance status. The majority of the hospitals are shown to clustered in the northern and southeastern CCA’s. The clinics are more evenly spaced out with gaps primarily noted in the southern and northwestern CCA’s. The Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression results are illustrated in Table 1 above. The results are shown for six separate regressions: chlamydia incidence, Natality (teen pregnancy incidence [TP], percent of live births that were preterm [Preterm], fetal low birth percentage [LBW], prenatal care in the 1st trimester rate [PNC 1T], infant mortality rate [IM]), poverty (total # below poverty line per 100,000), poverty &amp; chlamydia, TP &amp; IM, TP &amp; IM &amp; PNC 1T, and all coefficients (natality incidence, poverty incidence, chlamydia incidence, fertility rate). Utilizing ArcGIS software, OLS Regression was mapped with the 77 Chicago Community Areas (CCA) with Gonorrhea Infection Incidence per CCA as the dependent variable and Teen Pregnancy (TP), Infant Mortality (IM) and 1st trimester prenatal care (1TM) incidence per CCA as the explanatory variables. Regression reported with standard deviation (SD) and color coded based off quantity of SD. Map shapefile is of the 77 CCA’s. Overlying are Hospitals and Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) clinic locations as made available through CDPH public domain website. Conclusion Teen pregnancy rates, infant mortality rates, and prenatal care in the first trimester explain some of the spatial patterns of gonorrhea incidence of females in Chicago. Identification of these factors identified should prompt providers to ensure enhanced testing of gonorrhea and other STI’s to reduce burden in areas of high incidence. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures.

Joinpoint regression analysis of the incidence trend of syphilis and gonorrhea among adolescents aged 10-19 in Liaoning Province from 2006 to 2020

Joinpoint regression was used to analyze the trend of syphilis and gonorrhea incidence rate among 10-19 year old adolescents in Liaoning Province from 2006 to 2020. The syphilis and gonorrhea data in Liaoning Province were reported in the infectious disease monitoring system of China's disease prevention and control information system. From 2006 to 2020, a total of 7 721 cases of syphilis in 10-19 year old adolescents were reported in Liaoning Province, with an incidence rate about 0.90/100 000-22.13/100 000. The incidence rate of syphilis in women was higher than that in men. Adolescents infected with stage Ⅰ and stageⅡ syphilis accounted for 72.6%. There were 2 726 patients with gonorrhea, with an incidence rate about 1.29/100 000-10.74/100 000. The incidence rate of gonorrhea in men was higher than that in women. Joinpoint regression model analysis showed that the incidence of syphilis generally took 2012 as the inflection point. From 2006 to 2012, the average annual growth rate of syphilis incidence rate among adolescents was 67.30% (P<0.001). The average annual growth rate of syphilis incidence rate in adolescents from 2012 to 2020 was -0.02% (P=0.994).The overall incidence of gonorrhea incidence rate took 2015 as the inflection point. From 2006 to 2015, the average annual growth rate of juvenile gonorrhea incidence rate was 23.95% (P<0.001). The average annual growth rate of gonorrhea incidence rate in adolescents from 2015 to 2020 was 4.06% (P=0.492). Overall, from 2006 to 2020, the incidence rate of syphilis and gonorrhea among 10-19 year old adolescents in Liaoning Province increased slowly. The primary and secondary prevention strategies were significantly effective in reducing the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.

Increasing incidence rates of sexually transmitted infections from 2010 to 2019: an analysis of temporal trends by geographical regions and age groups from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study

BackgroundWorld Health Organization announced its goal of ending sexually transmitted infection (STI) epidemics by 2030. To provide a reference for tailored prevention strategies, we analyzed trends and differences in STIs by geographical regions and age groups from 1990 to 2019.MethodsAnnual number of new infections and age-standardized incidence rates (ASRs) of syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and genital herpes were recorded from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease study. We quantified the temporal trends of STIs by calculating changes in new infections and estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) of ASR.ResultsThe ASRs of syphilis, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and genital herpes increased by 1.70% (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.62–1.78%), 0.29% (95% CI 0.04–0.54%), 0.27% (95% CI 0.03–0.52%), and 0.40% (95% CI 0.36–0.44%) per year from 2010 to 2019 worldwide, respectively, while that of gonorrhea did not. The American regions had the greatest increase in ASR for syphilis (tropical Latin America: EAPC, 5.72; 95% CI 5.11–6.33), chlamydia (high-income North America: EAPC, 1.23; 95% CI 0.73–1.73), and gonorrhea (high-income North America: EAPC, 0.77; 95% CI 0.12–1.41). Additionally, southern sub-Saharan Africa and East Asia had the greatest increase in ASR for trichomoniasis (EAPC, 0.88; 95% CI 0.57–1.20) and genital herpes (EAPC, 1.44; 95% CI 0.83–2.06), respectively. In the most recent years, the population with the greatest incidence of syphilis tended to be younger globally (25–29 years in 2010 vs. 20–24 years in 2019) but older in North Africa and Middle East (20–24 year vs. 25–29 years); with chlamydia tended to be older in southern sub-Saharan Africa (25–29 years vs. 30–34 years) but younger in Australasia (40–44 years vs. 25–29 years); with genital herpes tended to be older in high-income North America (20–24 years vs. 25–29 years) and South Asia (25–29 years vs. 30–34 years).ConclusionsSyphilis, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and genital herpes showed a trend of increasing ASR from 2010 to 2019. The differences in trends by geographical regions and age groups point to the need for more targeted prevention strategies in key regions and populations.

Prevention of Neisseria gonorrhoeae with meningococcal B vaccine: a matched cohort study in Southern California.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is acquiring increasing resistance to available oral antibiotics, and current screening and treatment approaches have not decreased gonorrhea incidence. Although a gonorrhea-specific vaccine does not exist, N. gonorrhoeae shares much of its genome with Neisseria meningitidis, notably critical antigenic determinants including outer membrane vesicles (OMV). Prior observational studies have suggested that OMV-based meningococcal serogroup B vaccines confer protection against gonorrhea. We conducted a matched cohort study from 2016-2020 to examine the association of OMV-containing recombinant meningococcal serogroup B vaccine (4CMenB) with gonorrhea infection among teens and young adults at Kaiser Permanente Southern California. Recipients of 4CMenB were matched in a ratio of 1:4 to recipients of non-OMV-containing polysaccharide-conjugate vaccine targeting serotypes A, C, W, Y ("MenACWY") who had not received 4CMenB and were followed for incident gonorrhea. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to compare gonorrhea rates among recipients of 4CMenB vs MenACWY, adjusting for potential confounders. We conducted the same analysis with chlamydia as a negative control outcome. The study included 6,641 recipients of 4CMenB matched to 26,471 recipients of MenACWY. During follow-up, gonorrhea incidence rates per 1000 person-years (95% CI) were 2.0 (1.3-2.8) for recipients of 4CMenB and 5.2 (4.6-5.8) for recipients of MenACWY. In adjusted analyses, gonorrhea rates were 46% lower among recipients of 4CMenB vs MenACWY (HR [95% CI] 0.54 [0.34-0.86]), but chlamydia rates were similar between vaccine groups (HR [95% CI] 0.98 [0.82-1.17]). These results suggest cross-protection of 4CMenB against gonorrhea, supporting the potential for vaccination strategies to prevent gonorrhea.

Epidemiological characteristics of socially significant infectious diseases as an indicator of the quality of life of the population

Background. Incidence and prevalence of socially significant infectious diseases are the most important indicators of the quality of life and sanitary and epidemiological well-being of the population.The aim is to identify structural, quantitative and dynamic features of incidence and prevalence of socially significant infectious diseases among the population in the post-Soviet period (on the example of the Irkutsk region).Methods. The materials of the forms of federal statistical observation № 2, № 12, databases posted on the websites of the Federal State Statistics Service, the Unified Interdepartmental Information and Statistical System, the Center for Demographic Research of the Russian School of Economics were used in the study. An epidemiological analysis of morbidity indicators and a comparative assessment with the average Russian data have been carried out. Trend analysis was performed by linear regression analysis using the SPSS software (IBM Corp., USA).Results. The highest levels of tuberculosis prevalence in the Irkutsk region were noted in the period from 1999 to 2013 (352.1–436.9 0/0000). The incidence rate of syphilis increased by 1997 to the maximum value – 431.4 0/0000; in subsequent years, the incidence rate decreased, amounting to 28.8 0/0000 in 2019. Very high incidence rates of gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, chlamydia were noted in the region until the end of the 2000s. The dynamics of the prevalence of HIV infection since 1999 was characterized by a rapid increase in the indicator (in 2018 – 1995.0 0/0000), which made the region one of the most unfavorable in the country for this type of pathology. Thus, in the Irkutsk region since the second half of the 1990s until the late 2000s – early 2010s there was a pronounced increase in the incidence of socially significant infectious diseases to very high values, significantly exceeding the national average. In the subsequent period (2012–2019), there was a consistent decrease in the incidence rate.Conclusion. The quality of life of the population of Siberia in the post-Soviet period suffered to the greatest extent. This led to a rapid increase in the levels of morbidity with socially significant infectious diseases. A transition to the state model of the advanced development of human potential is required to reduce morbidity to an acceptable level.

Incidence of anogenital warts after the introduction of the quadrivalent HPV vaccine program in Manitoba, Canada.

The incidence of anogenital warts (AGW) decreased after the introduction of the quadrivalent human papillomavirus (qHPV) vaccine in multiple jurisdictions. We studied how comparing AGW incidence rates with different outcomes affects the interpretation of the qHPV vaccination program. To do this, we replicated multiple study designs within a single jurisdiction (Manitoba). We measured the incidence rates of AGW, AGW-related prescriptions, chlamydia, and gonorrhea (the latter two as sham outcomes) between 2001 and 2017 using several clinical and administrative health databases from Manitoba. We then used incidence rate ratios (IRRs) to compare, for each outcome, the rate for the 1997-1998 birth cohort (the first cohorts eligible for the publicly funded qHPV vaccination program) and the older 1995-1996 birth cohort. AGW incidence in Manitoba dropped 72% (95% confidence interval 54-83%) among 16-18 year-old girls and 51% (14-72%) among boys after the introduction of the female-only qHPV vaccination program. Trends in AGW-related prescriptions were different from trends in AGW diagnoses as these prescriptions peaked shortly after the introduction of the publicly funded qHPV vaccine program. Chlamydia and gonorrhea incidence rates also decreased 12% (5-18%) and 16% (-1-30%), respectively, for 16-18 year-old girls. The publicly funded school-based qHPV vaccine program reduced AGW incidence in Manitoba by three-quarters in young females. AGW-related prescriptions are a poor proxy for medically attended AGW after the introduction of the publicly funded qHPV vaccination program. Different sexual habits in adolescents are, at most, responsible for a small portion of the reduction in AGW incidence.

Large Increase in Azithromycin-Resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Northern Spain

The aim of this study was to characterize the evolution of gonorrhea in the general population by correlating epidemiological, genotypic, and antimicrobial resistance data of Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates collected in northern Spain from 2014 to 2018. One hundred ninety-four strains underwent antimicrobial susceptibility testing and were genetically analyzed by N. gonorrhoeae multiantigen sequence typing. Increasing cases of gonococcal infections have been observed after 2015. Most occurred in male with urethritis. Sequence type (ST)-9972 and ST-1576, the predominant genotypes identified, have not been previously described as epidemic clones. Of great concern was the significant increase in azithromycin-resistant N. gonorrhoeae. More than 30% of these isolates were obtained from men who have sex with men (MSM). ST-12302 was the most prevalent clone among the azithromycin-resistant strains, and was also resistant to penicillin, ciprofloxacin, and tetracycline. This multidrug-resistant clone was exclusively isolated from MSM during 2018. The incidence rates of gonorrhea and azithromycin-resistant N. gonorrhoeae have significantly increased due to the emergence of new clones. ST-12302 has recently been recognized as an epidemic clone; therefore, its surveillance could be the key in controlling further dissemination of azithromycin resistance. These data highlight the need to perform local studies to update treatment guidelines and reinforce preventive measures against gonorrhea.

Incidence of Hepatitis C Virus Infections Among Users of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Pre-exposure Prophylaxis

Sexual transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is well documented among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-uninfected individuals. The use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) may be associated with engagement in activities that facilitate the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and possibly HCV among PrEP users. Between 2012 and 2019, the incidence of HCV and bacterial STIs were calculated among HIV-negative indviduals receiving PrEP at the University Health Network HIV Prevention Clinic.Mucosal, anal, and blood samples were taken to test for HIV, syphilis, and anti-HCV antibodies. Among 344 HIV-uninfected patients receiving PrEP, 86% were men having sex with men (MSM). Five individuals were HCV-antibody positive at the time of PrEP initiation. Serologic and virologic follow-up data were available for 109 HCV-negative individuals over 282 patient-years (PY). Two new infections were recorded, yielding an incidence of primary HCV infection of 0.7 per 100 PY. In contrast with HCV, the incidence rates of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis were 49.2 per 100 PY, 36.3 per 100 PY, and 5.2 per 100 PY, respectively. Both individuals with new HCV diagnoses reported being MSM with a history of unprotected intercourse and 1 individual also reported recreational drug use. Both individuals were asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis and the infections were detected by routine laboratory monitoring. The low incidence of HCV infections despite significantly higher rates of other STIs suggests that sexual transmission of HCV is uncommon in HIV-negative MSM PrEP users in this community. Performing routine risk-based HCV surveillance among PrEP users should be evaluated. The high incidence of STIs in this population indicates a vital role for periodic STI monitoring in those receiving PrEP.

A212 INCIDENCE OF HEPATITIS C VIRUS INFECTIONS AMONG USERS OF HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS PRE-EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS

Abstract Background Sexual transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is well-documented among HIV-uninfected individuals. The use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) may lead to increased engagement in activities that facilitate the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STI) and possibly HCV among PrEP users. Aims To assess the incidence of Hepatitis C Virus Infections among HIV negative pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) users Methods Between 2012 and 2019, the incidence of HCV and bacterial STIs were calculated among HIV-negative patients receiving PrEP at the University Health Network HIV Prevention Clinic. Mucosal, anal and blood samples were taken to test for HIV, syphilis, and anti-HCV antibodies. Results Among 344 HIV-uninfected patients receiving PrEP, 86% were men having sex with men (MSM). Five individuals were HCV-antibody positive at the time of PrEP initiation. Serological and virological follow-up was available for 109 HCV-negative individuals over 282 patient-years (PY). Two new infections were recorded, yielding an incidence of primary HCV infection of 0.7/100 PY. In contrast with HCV, the incidence rates of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis were 49.2/100 PY, 36.3/100 PY, and 5.2/100 PY, respectively. Both individuals with new HCV diagnoses reported being MSM with a history of unprotected intercourse and one also reported recreational drug use. Both individuals were asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis and were detected by routine laboratory monitoring. Conclusions The low incidence of HCV infections despite significantly higher rates of other STIs suggests that sexual transmission of HCV is uncommon in HIV-negative MSM PrEP users. Performing routine risk-based HCV surveillance among PrEP users should be evaluated. The high incidence of STIs in this population indicates a vital role for periodic STI monitoring in those receiving PrEP. Funding Agencies vircan

Solithromycin as A Potential Novel Antibiotic Against Neisseria Gonorrhoeae Resistance

Gonorrhea is one of the most often sexually transmitted infection in the world. In 2016, WHO stated the Southeast Asia region as the fourth-highest incidence rate and prevalence of gonorrhea. One of the current problems with gonorrhea is related to its emerging resistance to first-line drugs such as cephalosporins, macrolides, and fluoroquinolones. This resistance has an impact on the difficulty of finding effective antibiotics to eradicate the infection, thus risking financial loss and infertility in sexually active age patients. This literature review will discuss solithromycin, the first fluoroketolide in phase III clinical trial, and show its potential as a new antibiotic against infection with resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Literatures are searched using Pubmed and Google Scholar search engines with keywords: antibiotics, CEM-101, clinical trial, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, new treatment, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, resistance, safety, and solithromycin. This semisynthetic antibiotic is supported by a different chemical structure from previous macrolides; improving solithromycin becomes more stable and able to bind easier with bacterial ribosomes. Pharmacologically, solithromycin provides an advantage in its high bioavailability, easy oral administration route, wide distribution, metabolism mainly in the liver, but not required dosage adjustments due to hepatic impairment, and a single dosage preparation that can increase patient compliance in healing gonorrhea infections. Also, its lower MIC50 than previous antibiotics makes it well-tolerated, therefore making this antibiotic as a potential recommendation for the management of multi-drug resistant gonorrhea in the future. Solithromycin is not inferior to the standard therapy (ceftriaxone and azithromycin), with 80% vs. 84% gonorrhea eradication rates. Per the anatomic site, the eradication rate is 92% in genital, 94% in the pharynx, and 83% in the rectum. However, special attention needs to be paid to the side effects of the gastrointestinal tract of solithromycin, as observed in phase III clinical trials at a dose of 1000 mg in the form of diarrhea (24%) and nausea (21%).

Testing Practices and Incidence of Chlamydial and Gonococcal Infection in the Veterans Health Administration, 2009-2019.

Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae cases reached a record high in the United States in 2018. Although active-duty military service members have high rates of chlamydia and gonorrhea infection, trends in chlamydia and gonorrhea in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) system have not been previously described, including among patients living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and young women. We identified all veterans in VHA care from 2009 through 2019. Tests and cases of chlamydia and gonorrhea were defined based on laboratory results in the electronic health record. Chlamydia and gonorrhea incidence rates were calculated each year by demographic group and HIV status. In 2019, testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea occurred in 2.3% of patients, 22.6% of women aged 18-24 years, and 34.1% of persons living with HIV. The 2019 incidence of chlamydia and gonorrhea was 100.8 and 56.3 cases per 100 000 VHA users, an increase of 267% and 294%, respectively, since 2009. Veterans aged ≤34 years accounted for 9.5% of the VHA population but 66.9% of chlamydia and 42.9% of gonorrhea cases. Chlamydia and gonorrhea incidence rates in persons living with HIV were 1432 and 1687 per 100 000, respectively. The incidence of chlamydia and gonorrhea rose dramatically from 2009 to 2019. Among tested persons, those living with HIV had a 15.2-fold higher unadjusted incidence of chlamydia and 34.9-fold higher unadjusted incidence of gonorrhea compared with those not living with HIV. VHA-wide adherence to chlamydia and gonorrhea testing in high-risk groups merits improvement.

Screening is not associated with reduced incidence of gonorrhoea or chlamydia in men who have sex with men (MSM); an ecological study of 23 European countries.

Background: Increasing rates of antimicrobial resistance has motivated a reassessment of if intensive screening for gonorrhoea and chlamydia is associated with a reduction in the prevalence of these infections in men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods: Spearman's correlation was used to evaluate the country-level correlation between the intensity of self-reported sexual transmitted infection (STI) screening in MSM (both anal and urethral screening, taken from a large internet survey of MSM) and the incidence (taken from ECDC surveillance figures) and prevalence (taken from a literature review of studies estimating prevalence in MSM attending STI clinics) of gonorrhoea and chlamydia. Results: The intensity of both anal and genital screening was found to be positively associated with country level gonorrhoea incidence rates (rho 0.74; p=0.0004; rho=0.73; p=0.0004, respectively) and Ct incidence rates (rho 0.71; p=0.001; rho=0.78; p=0.0001, respectively). No associations were found between anal or genital screening intensity and Ng prevalence in clinic populations (Table 2). Conclusions: We found no evidence of a negative association between screening intensity and the prevalence of gonorrhoea or chlamydia in MSM. Randomized controlled trials are urgently required to evaluate if the high antimicrobial exposure resulting from intensive screening programmes is justified.

Screening is not associated with reduced incidence of gonorrhoea or chlamydia in men who have sex with men (MSM); an ecological study of 23 European countries

Background: Increasing rates of antimicrobial resistance has motivated a reassessment of if intensive screening for gonorrhoea and chlamydia is associated with a reduction in the prevalence of these infections in men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods: Spearman’s correlation was used to evaluate the country-level correlation between the intensity of self-reported sexual transmitted infection (STI) screening in MSM (both anal and urethral screening, taken from a large internet survey of MSM) and the incidence (taken from ECDC surveillance figures) and prevalence (taken from a literature review of studies estimating prevalence in MSM attending STI clinics) of gonorrhoea and chlamydia. Results: The intensity of both anal and genital screening was found to be positively associated with country level gonorrhoea incidence rates (rho 0.74; p=0.0004; rho=0.73; p=0.0004, respectively) and Ct incidence rates (rho 0.71; p=0.001; rho=0.78; p=0.0001, respectively). No associations were found between anal or genital screening intensity and Ng prevalence in clinic populations (Table 2). Conclusions: We found no evidence of a negative association between screening intensity and the prevalence of gonorrhoea or chlamydia in MSM. Randomized controlled trials are urgently required to evaluate if the high antimicrobial exposure resulting from intensive screening programmes is justified.

A meningococcal B vaccine induces cross-protection against gonorrhea.

PurposeNeisseria meningitidis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae share between 80% and 90% of their genetic sequence. Meningococcal serogroup B vaccines based on outer membrane vesicles—such as VA-MENGOC-BC—could cross-protect against gonorrhea. The aim of this study was to analyze the incidence rates of gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted diseases with respect to the use of the VA-MENGOC-BC vaccine.Materials and MethodsHealth statistics between 1970 and 2017 were reviewed and the incidence of meningococcal disease and sexually transmitted diseases (gonorrhea, syphilis, condyloma acuminatum, hepatitis B and human immunodeficiency virus infection) were analyzed during the pre- and post-vaccination periods. Gonorrhea incidence was also analyzed by age groups.ResultsVA-MENGOC-BC was successfully used to control a meningococcal epidemic in Cuba. The strategy to combat the epidemic was carried out in two stages. The first one was a nationwide mass-vaccination campaign from 1989 to 1990, targeting the population at highest-risk aged 3 months to 24 years. During the second stage, begun in 1991, it was included in the Expanded Immunization Program. Gonorrhea incidence increased from 1970 to 1989. However, after the VA-MENGOC-BC massive vaccination campaign a sharp decrease of gonorrhea incidence was observed. It lasted between 1989 and 1993. A second incidence peak was detected in 1995, but it dropped again. Data clearly show a decline in the incidence of gonorrhea following massive vaccination, in contrast with other sexually transmitted diseases. Incidence rates in unvaccinated age groups also decreased, probably due to herd immunity.ConclusionThere is evidence that VA-MENGOC-BC could induce a moderate protection against gonorrhea.

Gonorrhoea gone wild: rising incidence of gonorrhoea and associated risk factors among gay and bisexual men attending Australian sexual health clinics.

A retrospective cohort analysis was undertaken using repeat gonorrhoea testing data among gay and bisexual men from 2010 to 2017, which was extracted from a network of 47 sexual health clinics across Australia. Poisson and Cox regression analyses were used to determine temporal trends in gonorrhoea incidence rates, as well as associated demographic and behavioural factors. The present analysis included 46904 gay and bisexual men. Gonorrhoea incidence at any anatomical site increased from 14.1/100 person years (PY) in 2010 to 24.6/100 PY in 2017 (P<0.001), with the greatest increase in infections of the pharynx (5.6-15.9/100 PY, P<0.001) and rectum (6.6-14.8/100 PY, P<0.001). After adjusting for symptomatic and contact-driven presentations, the strongest predictors of infection were having more than 20 sexual partners in a year (hazard ratio (HR)=1.9, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.7-2.2), using injecting drugs (HR=1.7, 95%CI: 1.4-2.0), being HIV positive (HR=1.4, 95%CI: 1.2-1.6) and being aged less than 30 years old (HR=1.4, 95%CI: 1.2-1.6). Gonorrhoea has increased dramatically among gay and bisexual men in Australia. Enhanced prevention efforts, as well as more detailed, network-driven research are required to combat gonorrhoea among young men, those with HIV and those who use injecting drugs.

A taxonomy of the scope and organization of local sexually transmitted disease services for policy and practice.

Local health departments (LHDs) and their organizational partners play a critical role in controlling sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States. We examine variation in the differentiation, integration, and concentration (DIC) of STD services and develop a taxonomy describing the scope and organization of local STD services. LHD STD programs (n = 115) in Alabama (AL) and California (CA) responded to surveys assessing STD services available in 2014. K-means cluster analysis identified LHD groupings based on DIC variation. Discriminant analysis validated cluster solutions. Differences in organizational partnerships and scope of STD services were compared by taxonomy category. Multivariable regression models estimated the association of the STD services organization taxonomy and five-year (2010–2014) gonorrhea incidence rates, controlling for county-level sociodemographics and resources. A three-cluster solution was identified: (1) low DIC (n = 74), (2) moderate DIC (n = 31), and (3) high DIC (n = 10). In discriminant analysis, 95% of jurisdictions were classified into the same types as originally assigned through K-means cluster analysis. High DIC jurisdictions were more likely (p < 0.001) to partner with most organizations than moderate and low DIC jurisdictions, and more likely (p < 0.001) to conduct STD needs assessment, comprehensive sex education, and targeted screening. In contrast, contact tracing, case management, and investigations were conducted similarly across jurisdictions. In adjusted analyses, there were no differences in gonorrhea incidence rates by category. Jurisdictions in CA and AL can be characterized into three distinct clusters based on the DIC of STD services. Taxonomic analyses may aid in improving the reach and effectiveness of STD services.

Possible Impact of Wide-scale Vaccination Against Serogroup B Neisseria Meningitidis on Gonorrhea Incidence Rates in One Region of Quebec, Canada

BackgroundOwing to a persistent increase of serogroup B Neisseria meningitidis (Nm) invasive infections in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean (SLSJ) region of the province of Quebec (Canada) since 2006, a wide-scale vaccination campaign of individuals aged 6 months to 20 years was conducted between May and December 2014 using the 4-component protein-based meningococcus serogroup B vaccine (4CMenB). Components of this vaccine have shown to potentially cross-react with Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng). The study objective was to assess the impact of the vaccination campaign on Ng incidence rate (IR).MethodsNg cases notified to public health authorities during prevaccination period (January 2006 to June 2014) and postvaccination period (July 2014 to June 2017) were analyzed. The impact of this mass campaign was estimated by a Poisson regression model, including the year (11 July–June categories), age (14–20 vs. 21 years and older), and the intervention (0 by default and 1 in those 14–20 years in the period of July 2014 to June 2017).ResultsOverall vaccine coverage was 82% in the target group. A total of 231 Ng cases were reported among persons 14 years and older (IR: 8.4/100,000 person-years) of the SLSJ region from January 2006 to June 2017. A decrease in the Ng number of cases and IR among individuals 14–20 years was observed during the post-vaccination period whereas it increased in those 21 years and older (figure). Estimate of vaccination impact was an Ng risk reduction of 59% (95% CI: −22% to 84%; P = 0.1). During the same period, Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) infections increased among persons of both age groups in the SLSJ region.ConclusionAlthough the estimate of the impact of the campaign was not statistically significant, possibly due to limited size of the study population and the low incidence of the disease, it is congruent with results of a case–control study in New Zealand showing an OMV-MeNZB vaccine effectiveness of 31%. A higher effectiveness of 4CMenB is a plausible hypothesis as three additional proteins also found in Ng are included in the vaccine used in the SLSJ region. The results of this ecologic study suggest cross-protection of 4CMenB vaccine against Ng infections. Further studies on this topic are warranted.Figure. Ng and Ct infections per quarter and by age group, SLSJ, January 2006 to June 2017.Disclosures P. De Wals, GlaxoSmithKline: Grant Investigator and Scientific Advisor, Grant recipient and travel expenses. Pfizer: Grant Investigator and Scientific Advisor, Grant recipient and travel expenses. Sanofi-Pasteur: Grant Investigator and Scientific Advisor, Grant recipient and travel expenses. Novartis: Grant Investigator and Scientific Advisor, Grant recipient and travel expenses.