Introducing HPRU3: Strengthening the UK’s Response to blood-borne viruses and sexually transmitted infections

One year on from its launch in April 2025, the NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Blood-Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections (HPRU BBSTI) at University College London (UCL) is already making important strides in research, policy, and practice.

This five year programme represents the third funding cycle of the HPRU, building on the successes and learning from earlier phases. A collaboration between UCL and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the unit brings together experts from research, healthcare, and public health to tackle key challenges in the prevention, diagnosis, and care of blood-borne viruses (BBVs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The HPRU BBSTI aims to generate evidence that is both scientifically robust and directly relevant to real-world practice, ultimately improving health outcomes across the UK.

Our wide-ranging programme of research is organised into four interconnected themes, each focusing on a different aspect of the response to BBVs and STIs.

Theme A explores how people engage with prevention and treatment, and what helps or hinders access to care. Projects include “Assessing barriers and facilitators to STI prevention interventions in key communities” and “Engaging with people at high risk of STIs in public sex environments in rural and coastal UK.” Other work addresses emerging issues such as antibiotic resistance linked to doxycycline use and the care experiences of women living with hepatitis B during pregnancy.

Theme B evaluates innovative approaches to reduce infections and strengthen STI and BBV control. This includes projects such as “Assessing combination intervention strategies to reduce bacterial STIs among GBMSM,” “Modelling sexual partnership networks for STI prevention,” and expanding access to testing through opt-out BBV testing in emergency departments. The theme also explores digital approaches, including new online platforms to support the safe use of HIV PrEP.

Theme C focuses on service delivery, with the aim of ensuring care is efficient, equitable, and sustainable. Research includes “Near Patient Diagnostics for Syphilis (NEAR-TREP)” and studies using whole-genome sequencing to better understand antimicrobial resistance in Trichomonas vaginalis. Other projects aim to improve hepatitis B contact management, reduce stigma around hepatitis C, and strengthen engagement in HIV care.

Looking ahead, Theme D is dedicated to pandemic preparedness and outbreak response, supporting the UK in preparing for future threats. This includes strengthening national surveillance systems, improving outbreak detection, and developing clear and effective communication strategies. Projects such as “Improving detection of STI/BBV outbreaks” and updated HCV community outbreak guidance are helping to build faster, more coordinated responses.

Together, these themes form a cohesive and forward-looking research programme that not only deepens understanding of BBVs and STIs, but also supports tangible improvements in policy, practice, and population health outcomes, helping to reduce infections and improve care for communities across the nation.

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