Gonorrhoea – What Is It?
Bacteria known as Neisseria gonorrhoeae or gonococcus cause gonorrhoea.(1) It usually affects the genital area but it can also infect the throat or anus. It is easily transmitted during vaginal intercourse but it can also be transmitted during anal or oral sex. (2)
Gonorrhoea is sometimes found in the rectum of women who have not had anal intercourse. This is because it can spread from the vagina. It can also be passed from a woman to her baby during birth. (3)
The outer cell membrane of neisseria gonorrhoeae is covered with large protein and sugar molecules and it is these components which help the bacteria to attach to and infect the infected persons cells. (4)
Gonorrhoea (Gonorrhea) can also affect the eyes. Gonococcal conjunctivitis is an infection of the thin, transparent conjunctiva (skin) covering the eye and inner eyelids. It occurs mostly in infants infected during vaginal birth, but adult infection can occur can occur via the fingers of either the individual or her or his partner. Gonococcal infection of the eye is an ophthalmic emergency and needs urgent medical attention.(5)
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