England will be the first country in the world to start vaccinating people against the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhea, BBC reports.

The vaccine is 30-40% effective, but the National Health Service (NHS) of England hopes it will reverse soaring.

There were more than 85,000 cases in 2023—the highest since records began in 1918.

Gonorrhea does not always have symptoms, but they can include pain, unusual discharge, inflammation of the genitals and infertility.

How many people will choose to be immunized is uncertain.

But projections by Imperial College London show that if the jab proves popular, it could prevent 100,000 cases and save the NHS nearly £8 million over the next decade.

Vaccination will start in August and will be offered through sexual health services.

Public Health Scotland said it was also working on plans to launch its own program for high-risk individuals.

Northern Ireland's Department of Health said the issue is being considered, with an announcement expected shortly.