The meningococcal B (MenB) vaccine, used to prevent meningococcal disease in high-risk groups, has been found to offer no protection against gonorrhoea infection in men who have sex with men (MSM). A large-scale randomised controlled trial (RCT), published in the New England Journal of Medicine, challenges earlier observational studies that had suggested a potential benefit from the 4CMenB vaccine. The study's results are significant because they suggest that any protection offered by the MenB vaccine against gonorrhoea in high-risk populations may be lower than previously thought.
The trial was conducted among MSM, who are at increased risk of gonorrhoea infection due to the high prevalence of the disease in this group. The UK's National Health Service (NHS) offers a targeted programme providing the 4CMenB vaccine to gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men deemed at increased risk of gonorrhoea. While this study does not diminish the value of the programme for its intended purpose of preventing meningococcal disease, it highlights the need for ongoing evaluation and real-world surveillance as new evidence emerges.
NHS guidelines state that MSM aged 16 to 25 are offered a single dose of the MenB vaccine at their first visit to a sexual health clinic. However, this study's findings suggest that men in this group may still be at risk of gonorrhoea infection despite receiving the vaccine. It is essential for individuals concerned about gonorrhoea or other sexually transmitted infections to consult their GP or visit a local sexual health clinic for advice and testing.
According to Public Health England (PHE), there were 55,212 new diagnoses of gonorrhoea in England and Wales in 2020. The disease is often asymptomatic but can lead to severe complications if left untreated. Neisseria gonorrhoeae remains a major global public health threat due to the ongoing emergence of antimicrobial resistance.
The UK's Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) have called for increased awareness and action to tackle the rising rates of sexually transmitted infections, including gonorrhoea. The study's results will inform future research efforts focused on developing next-generation vaccines specifically designed to combat gonorrhoea.