Gonorrhea

Clear↑ rising

Sexually transmitted

Current NYS Status

45,218 cases in 2024 — near the 5-year baseline of ~38,000.

2024 statewide cases: 45,218

Source: NYSDOH Annual Communicable Disease Report 2024 + 5-yr baseline

What is it?

Gonorrhea is a common bacterial sexually transmitted infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. NYS reported 45,218 cases in 2024. Drug-resistant gonorrhea is an increasing public health concern — treatment now requires injectable ceftriaxone.

How it spreads

Spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person. Can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat. Can be passed from a pregnant person to a baby during childbirth.

Symptoms

Many people have no symptoms. When present: burning during urination, unusual discharge, or rectal pain. Untreated gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and increased HIV risk.

Who is at risk?

Sexually active people of any age. Rates are highest among people aged 20–29. Men who have sex with men have elevated rates. Consistent condom use significantly reduces risk.

What you can do

👁Get tested regularly if you are sexually active with new or multiple partners

🛡Use condoms correctly every time to reduce transmission risk

⚕️If diagnosed, complete the full course of antibiotics and notify recent sexual partners

Tier B — Annual report tracking

Based on NYSDOH annual communicable disease report. Threat level reflects 2024 case counts compared to the 5-year baseline.

Seasonality: year round

This information is for general public health awareness and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.