Gonorrhea

45,218 cases in 2024 — near the 5-year baseline of ~158,448.

What is it?

Gonorrhea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae and is the second most common reportable STI in NYS, with 45,218 cases in 2024. Rates have been rising over the past decade. Drug-resistant gonorrhea is an urgent public health concern — treatment now requires injectable ceftriaxone because oral alternatives have largely failed.

How it spreads

Spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat. Can be passed from a pregnant person to a baby's eyes during delivery, causing blindness if untreated (prevented by routine newborn eye drops).

Symptoms

Many people have no symptoms. When present: burning during urination, unusual discharge from the penis or vagina, rectal pain or discharge, or sore throat (from throat infection). Untreated gonorrhea in women can cause PID, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy. Disseminated infection can cause arthritis and skin lesions.

Who is at risk?

Sexually active people of all ages and genders. Rates are highest among people aged 15–29. Men who have sex with men have significantly elevated rates. People with prior gonorrhea are at elevated risk for reinfection.

What you can do

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