A new study published on July 8, 2026, in the New England Journal of Medicine indicates that the MenB vaccine offers no protection against gonorrhoea infections. Conducted by Griffith University and the Kirby Institute in Sydney, the trial involved 587 men and revealed no significant difference in infection rates between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups.
Study Details: GoGoVax Trial Findings
The GoGoVax trial monitored 587 men over a two-year period. Half of the participants received the MenB vaccine, while the other half were given a placebo. The results showed that 291 men who received the vaccine contracted gonorrhoea, compared to 285 in the placebo group, indicating similar infection rates.
The study's authors stated, “These findings provide strong evidence that the MenB vaccine is not effective for gonorrhoea prevention.” This contradicts earlier studies that suggested a 38% reduction in gonorrhoea infections among vaccinated individuals.
Response from Health Authorities
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) responded to the findings, emphasizing that their own studies are ongoing and will yield more robust data. Dr. Mary Ramsay, director of public health programmes at UKHSA, stated, “Over 30,000 people in England have started this course of vaccination, and this will provide more robust data on vaccine impact and effectiveness.”
Despite the study's results, the UKHSA is not recommending immediate changes to the vaccination program. Cases of gonorrhoea in England remain alarmingly high, peaking at 82,592 in 2022, though they have decreased to 63,943 in 2025.
Public Health Implications
Experts have expressed disappointment over the study's findings. Dr. Odile Harrison from the University of Oxford noted that gonorrhoea continues to pose a significant public health threat, especially with the rise of antimicrobial resistance. “An effective vaccine remains a high priority,” she said.
Taku Mukiwa, head of health programmes at the Terrence Higgins Trust, urged the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) to reconsider the vaccination strategy, stating, “If the evidence has changed, the approach has to change too.” He highlighted the importance of continued condom use and regular testing to combat the spread of STIs.
- 291 infections among vaccinated men
- 285 infections among placebo group
- Previous studies suggested 38% reduction in infections
- Over 30,000 vaccinated in England
- Gonorrhoea cases peaked at 82,592 in 2022
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by BBC News. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
