UKHSA Warns as Sexually Transmitted Shigella Cases Surge to Record High in England
The UK Health Security Agency has issued an alert after sexually transmitted Shigella diagnoses in England rose to 2,560 in 2025, the highest level on record, with gay and bisexual men particularly affected.
Key Points
- 2,560 sexually transmitted Shigella diagnoses recorded in England in 2025
- Gay and bisexual men disproportionately affected
- UKHSA recommends hygiene during sex and condom use to reduce transmission
- Those diagnosed should also screen for HIV and other STIs
Full Details
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has raised concerns over a significant rise in sexually transmitted Shigella cases in England, with diagnoses reaching 2,560 in 2025. Dr Katy Sinka, head of the STI section at UKHSA, warned that the rise is concerning but emphasized that risks can be reduced through good hygiene during and after sex and condom use. The agency is urging those diagnosed with Shigella to also get screened for other sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, as co-infection is common. This outbreak follows patterns seen in previous years where Shigella outbreaks have been concentrated among men who have sex with men. The infection causes severe gastroenteritis with symptoms including diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, and can be particularly severe in individuals with compromised immune systems.
Why It Matters
This outbreak highlights the ongoing challenge of sexually transmitted gastrointestinal infections and the need for integrated sexual health messaging that addresses both traditional STIs and emerging threats like Shigella.
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