Multi-drug resistant gonorrhea identified

Advisory Alert

April 4, 2023

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To: Local Health System Partners

FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION

Important information regarding ceftriaxone non-susceptible gonorrhea in Ontario

Recent international reports from Europe and USA have identified a multi-drug resistant strain of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Through routine provincial disease surveillance activities, an Ontario patient with no known travel history was recently identified as having a gonorrhea infection with a similar resistance pattern. For instance, a reduced susceptibility to ceftriaxone and cefixime, as well as resistance to ciprofloxacin, penicillin, and tetracycline, which suggests circulation of this multi-drug resistant strain within Ontario.

In this context, and per the attached memo, the Ministry of Health is recommending:

Current CGSTI guidance advises to re-screen persons with gonorrhea infection at 6 months post-treatment or else at the first follow-up appointment within 12 months, given risks of re-infection due to ongoing or repeat exposure.

Health care practitioners are asked to call the Sexual Health Clinic at 705.522.9200, ext. 482 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200) to report a case with multi-drug resistant gonorrhea infection, or for additional information.

Sincerely,

Original Signed By

Dr. Penny Sutcliffe

Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer

NOTE: All Advisory Alerts are found on our website.


This item was last modified on April 4, 2023