More than 2,000 sexually transmitted infections recorded so far this year

HPSC data shows chlamydia is responsible for just under half of Ireland's STIs. Picture: Eddie O'Hare

More than 2,000 sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have been recorded already this year.

Of the 10 STIs that are recorded by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), eight saw a rise in virility in January.

Chlamydia, gonorrhea and genital herpes are the most viral infections transmitted so far in 2024.

Last week, 473 additional infections were notified to the HPSC, bringing the overall total to 2,299 cases for the first five weeks of the year.

That's a rise of 4.7% (or 105 cases) on the figures for this time last year.

When broken down further, HPSC data shows chlamydia is responsible for just under half of Ireland's STIs.

There have been 1,216 cases of the infection recorded so far this year
— though it is noted this figure is actually down by 24 cases on chlamydia statistics for the same period in 2023.

Gonorrhea (633 cases,) genital herpes (184 cases) and HIV (133 cases) have all seen rises.

Both HIV and syphilis (112 cases) have risen by more than 40%.

HIV notifications in the report represent the first time each individual has a positive HIV test in Ireland.

This will include people who have their first positive HIV test ever, and those who are living with HIV, having previously had a positive HIV test outside of Ireland.

The HSE provides free home STI testing kits to anyone 17 or older in Ireland through its SH:24 service. Picture: Eddie O'Hare

In comparison, there has been a 433% rise in trichomoniasis (16 cases compared to three in 2023.)

In women, trichomoniasis can cause a foul-smelling vaginal discharge, genital itching and painful urination. Men who have trichomoniasis typically have no symptoms.

The HPSC also provide a breakdown of the STI by both location and age groups.

HSE East (which consists of Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow) has recorded the highest number of STIs so far this year, with 1,282 cases as of last Friday.

Cork and Kerry are responsible for a combined 224 cases so far in 2024, with all other regions bar the HSE Midlands and HSE North West (Donegal, Leitrim and Sligo) having more than 20 cases per week so far this year.

Last week, a case of HIV was recorded in a person aged 0-14.

It is the second time so far this year an STI was recorded in a person from that age group, alongside a chlamydia infection in previous weeks. 

The HSE provides free home STI testing kits to anyone 17 or older in Ireland through its SH:24 service.