why we need STI vaccines

Vaccines Could Revolutionize the STI Response

Despite decades of global efforts to control sexually transmitted infections (STIs) by promoting healthier sexual behaviors, such as increased condom use, treating people with STI symptoms, and improving access to testing and treatment, global STI rates remain stubbornly high.

An estimated 1 million new cases occur every single day.

The Need

Why We Need STI Vaccines

Most sexually transmitted infections (STIs) go untreated, often because they cause no immediate symptoms.

Even when a person does experience acute symptoms, such as discharges or sores, diagnostic tests are often unavailable or unaffordable. With or without symptoms, STIs can be transmitted to others, and may cause severe health consequences.

Many STIs, including genital herpes, gonorrhea and syphilis, can increase the risk of HIV acquisition

HPV infection can lead to several forms of cancer

Bacteria that cause syphilis can be easily passed to the baby during pregnancy and childbirth—resulting in stillbirth, prematurity, infant death, low-birth weight, congenital deformities, and other issues

Gonorrhea and chlamydia are major causes of pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility in women

Gonorrhea has progressively developed resistance to antibiotic drugs prescribed to treat it

STI Vaccine Development Status

Where Things Stand

Vaccines currently exist for only two common STIs – HPV and hepatitis B – with research underway for several others. And new research suggests the potential of an oral antibiotic to reduce STIs when taken after sex. Click below to explore development status and priority action areas for tackling each STI.

The STI Vaccine Roadmap

The Plan

The World Health Organization, the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, and global partners have published a comprehensive roadmap for development of new STI vaccines. The roadmap identifies three key workstreams.

1. Make the case for STI vaccine investment

2. Expedite research and development

3. optimize global benefits and access