Health leaders are encouraged by latest reductions in STIs across the city but say maintaining strong testing rates is essential to ensure infections are picked up early and that progress continues.
Liverpool has recorded a significant fall in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with new figures showing a 17.8% drop in diagnoses. This is greater than the national decrease of 8.7%.
The latest data reveals 954 fewer STI cases in the city, marking another year of strong progress following a 21% decline between 2023 and 2024.
Crucially, the drop in infections comes despite only a small reduction in testing. Public health experts say the scale of the decline suggests a real reduction in transmission, rather than simply fewer people getting tested.
Despite the positive trend, Liverpool City Council’s Public Health team is warning against complacency, particularly as STIs continue to disproportionately affect some groups:
- Young people under 25
- Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM)
- Black African and Caribbean communities and other ethnic minority groups
It is important that we see testing as a normal part of good sexual health care.
Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, said:
“We are really pleased with these latest figures and the sexual health and testing programme we have in place locally.
Regular STI testing is a normal part of looking after your sexual health and wellbeing. We encourage people to test at least once a year, and/or whenever you have a new partner, to stay confident and protected”.
Professor Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health for Liverpool City Council, said:
“This is really encouraging news for Liverpool and reflects the hard work of services and communities across the city.
“However, we know STIs still have a disproportionate impact on some groups, and regular testing remains vital. We want people to feel confident coming forward, and we have great local services to help people do so. Getting tested is quick, easy and free.”
Free, confidential support available
Residents are being urged to continue accessing free sexual health services through Axess Sexual Health, which is commissioned by Liverpool City Council.
Axess provides:
- Free STI testing and treatment
- HIV testing and prevention, including PrEP and PEP
- Contraception, including emergency contraception
- Confidential advice and support
Services are available in clinics across the city, as well as online, where residents can order home testing kits. Access support or order a free home test: https://www.axess.clinic/
Residents can also go to the Liverpool PaSH website for information about STIs and how to test: https://www.lpash.org.uk/
