Description of impact
Case summaryA study was undertaken in the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) sexually
transmitted Infections reference laboratory to develop, validate and implement a
rapid screening assay for the molecular detection of the most common markers that
are associated with ceftriaxone resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae directly from
clinical specimens. The development of this assay was highly significant as it can be
used directly on clinical specimens and has enabled the Gonorrhoea Undetected
Resistance Laboratory Study (GURLS) to be undertaken. GURLS aims to estimate
the prevalence of undetected ceftriaxone-resistant N. gonorrhoeae in England when
no cultured isolate is available, to further inform national testing and management
guidelines. The assay has also supported the development of the UKHSA national
guidance ‘Managing incidents of ceftriaxone-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae in
England’.
| Category of impact | Health impacts |
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