MenB vaccine does not prevent gonorrhoea, major study finds

A major study has found that the Meningitis B (MenB) vaccine does not protect men against gonorrhoea infections, contrary to earlier hopes. The research, conducted by scientists and published in a leading medical journal, analyzed data from thousands of at-risk men who received the vaccine. The findings show no significant reduction in gonorrhoea cases among vaccinated individuals compared to unvaccinated controls. This contradicts previous observational studies that suggested a potential cross-protective effect. The study's authors emphasize that the MenB vaccine should not be used for gonorrhoea prevention, and alternative strategies are needed. Public health officials had considered offering the vaccine to high-risk groups as a stopgap measure against rising antibiotic-resistant gonorrhoea.

Global Impact

The study has significant public health implications, particularly for sexual health programs in countries with high gonorrhoea rates and rising antibiotic resistance. It redirects research and funding toward developing a dedicated gonorrhoea vaccine, which remains an urgent unmet need.