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. 1999 Apr;26(4):201-7.
doi: 10.1097/00007435-199904000-00003.

Usefulness of partner notification for syphilis control

K S Kohl  1 , T A Farley, J Ewell, J Scioneaux
Affiliations

Usefulness of partner notification for syphilis control

K S Kohl et al. Sex Transm Dis. 1999 Apr.

Abstract

Background and objectives: In the United States, the recent syphilis epidemic has been followed by the lowest rates in 40 years. Syphilis control in the United States traditionally emphasizes partner notification; however, its role in elimination efforts remains undefined.

Goal of the study: To describe and compare outcome measures of partner notification during and after the epidemic.

Study design: Descriptive analysis of data obtained from interview records of patients with early syphilis in Louisiana during 1993 through 1996.

Results: Of 12,927 patients with early syphilis, 3,245 (25%) were identified through partner notification. A total of 7,120 (55%) patients named at least one infected contact. Patients named a mean of 2.3 contacts, resulting in 29,248 named contacts; of these, 22,825 (78%) were examined. A total of 9,374 (41%) of examined contacts were infected, including 18% who were newly identified as infected. No substantial differences were found between epidemic and postepidemic years.

Conclusion: Partner notification is successful in identifying and treating a large number of infected persons. However, complementary strategies will be needed to eliminate syphilis.

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