Overview: Where the EU/EEA stands on STI surveillance in 2024
The 2024 report on monitoring responses to sexually transmitted infection (STI) epidemics across EU/EEA countries provides a comprehensive snapshot of prevention and control efforts. It tracks surveillance capacity, data quality, and progress toward interim targets set for 2025 to curb transmission, improve prevention, and ensure timely diagnosis and treatment. As public health systems continue to adapt after the pandemic, the 2024 findings highlight both gains and gaps in STI prevention, testing, and partner services across the region.
Key data streams and methods
EU/EEA surveillance relies on standardized case definitions, sentinel surveillance, and population-based estimates to measure incidence, testing uptake, and treatment outcomes. In 2024, countries reported on the number of laboratory-confirmed infections, rates per 100,000 population, and testing activity across diverse settings—from sexual health clinics to primary care. The report emphasizes data harmonization, data completeness, and timeliness as essential factors shaping the reliability of trend analyses and policy decisions.
Progress toward 2025 interim targets
Interim targets for 2025 focus on reducing transmission, expanding access to testing, and ensuring effective linkage to care. The 2024 data show mixed progress: several countries have increased routine STI testing, particularly for high-risk populations, and expanded access to rapid diagnostics. However, gaps remain in reach and equity, with underdiagnosis persisting in some regions and disparities in testing uptake by age, gender, and geography. The report underscores the need for targeted interventions, enhanced partner notification services, and stronger engagement with key populations to close these gaps.
Prevention strategies and programmatic responses
Across the EU/EEA, prevention efforts in 2024 centered on expanding access to testing, promoting safer sex practices, and integrating STI services with other sexual and reproductive health initiatives. Programs focusing on education, routine screening in high-prevalence settings, and community-based outreach have shown promise in improving early detection and reducing onward transmission. Investments in digital health tools, self-testing options, and telemedicine have also contributed to broader reach, though implementation varies by country and health system maturity.
Diagnosis, treatment, and care pathways
Timely diagnosis and effective treatment are core goals of STI control. In 2024, countries reported improvements in partner notification and expedited treatment after diagnosis, yet challenges persist for certain infections and subpopulations. Ensuring uniform access to antivirals and antibiotics, reducing stigma, and strengthening data linkage between laboratories, clinics, and public health authorities remain priorities for sustaining progress toward 2025 targets.
Data quality, transparency, and country differences
Some variation in surveillance infrastructure and data completeness reflects differing national capacities. The 2024 report stresses transparency—sharing methodologies, caveats, and limitations—to enable accurate cross-country comparisons. By identifying best practices and lessons learned, EU/EEA countries can align strategies, optimize resource allocation, and accelerate progress toward ending STI transmission in the region.
Implications for policy and practice
The 2024 monitoring report serves as a tool for policymakers, public health professionals, and researchers. It highlights where to invest, which populations require intensified outreach, and how to streamline surveillance to detect outbreaks sooner. Collaboration across borders remains essential, as STI transmission knows no national boundaries. The report advocates for strengthened data systems, integrated care models, and sustained political commitment to reach the 2025 interim targets and, ultimately, reduce the burden of STIs in Europe.
Looking ahead
As EU/EEA countries implement 2025-focused initiatives, continued investment in surveillance capacity, innovative testing modalities, and community engagement will be crucial. The 2024 findings offer a roadmap for refining prevention strategies, closing equity gaps, and accelerating progress toward ending STI epidemics in the region.
