GONORRHEA

Prepared by: Juan Angelo Mangahas

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrheoae. Gonorrhea affects both men and women and can infect the cervix, urethra, rectum, anus and throat. Gonorrhea is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and the global gonorrhea statistics show that an estimated 62 million cases of gonorrhea occur each year, affecting more women than men.

Signs and Symptoms

Women
A change in vaginal discharge; it may appear in abundance, change to a yellow or greenish colour, and develop a strong smell. A burning sensation or pain whilst passing urine. Irritation and/or discharge from the anus.

Men
A white or yellow discharge from the penis. A burning sensation or pain whilst passing urine. Irritation and/or discharge from the anus.

Pathogen

Neisseria gonorrheoae

Mode of Transmission
Gonorrhea is passed on through penetrative sex, including:
vaginal sex anal sex oral sex - oral sex can either transmit gonorrhea from the genitals to the throat of the person giving the stimulation, or it can pass an infection from the throat to the genitals of the person receiving stimulation.

It can also be transmitted from the genital tract of infected mothers to their newborns.

Incubation Period
1

14 days

Period of Communicability

This may extend for months in untreated individuals.

Treatment
Antibiotic medications for gonorrhea include: Cefixime Ceftriaxone Silver nitrate eye drops may be used for an infant born to a mother with gonorrhea.

Prevention
Using a condom during sex can reduce the chances of getting or passing on gonorrhea. Latex condoms are proven to be over 99% effective when used consistently and correctly. Leading a monogamous relationship.

Routine prenatal screening for gonorrhea and appropriate management of this infection in pregnant women Instillation of an effective eye preparation in all newborns at birth to prevent gonococcal eye infection