Gonorrhea cases in Montreal hit 25-year high

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is the type of bacteria that causes gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection. (Center for Disease Control via CNN Newsource)

The number of gonorrhea infections in Montreal has reached its highest level in 25 years, according to a report released this week by the city’s public health department.

In 2024, a total of 5,458 cases of gonorrhea were reported in the region — a rate of 257 cases per 100,000 residents, representing a 1,047 per cent increase since 1999.

Men accounted for the vast majority of cases (82 per cent), with the highest rates among those aged 25 to 44.

However, infections among women have also surged, rising nearly tenfold in the past two decades.

Health officials say the infection often goes undetected because it can be asymptomatic, particularly in women, which facilitates transmission.

When symptoms do appear, they can include lower abdominal pain, unusual discharge or pain when urinating (especially in men).

The most frequently affected sites of infection were the throat (41 per cent), urethra (25 per cent) and rectum (25 per cent).

While gonorrhea is curable with antibiotics, the public health agency warns that untreated cases can cause serious complications, including chronic pain and fertility problems, and can contribute to antibiotic resistance.

The report urges sexually active individuals to get tested regularly, use condoms for all types of sexual contact, and inform any partners from the last 60 days if diagnosed.