The number of people who are contracting the sexually transmitted disease gonorrhea continues to grow, latest figures by public health institute RIVM have shown.

In the first six months of this year some 6,687 cases were reported, a rise of 15% compared to the last six months of 2022.

Some 38% more women contracted the disease, despite an awareness campaign conducted by the RIVM over the summer and information and free condoms issued by local health boards GGD at the beginning of the academic year.

Gonorrhea is caused by a bacteria which can lead to infections. In women these can be less noticeable and can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, and, in rare cases, infertility.

In men the disease manifests as pain while peeing and a discharge.

The figures also show the number of people going to a doctor with sexually transmitted diseases rose by 12% in the first half of 2023.