[Contact tracing in genital chlamydia infections]

Abstract

Only one in five general practitioners in Norway initiates notification of partner(s) after diagnosing a case of genital chlamydial infection. In order to increase the use of this efficient case-finding method we review the aims of notifying partners and the judicial, ethical and economical aspects of the method. We describe both provider-referral and patient-referral methods. The first approach is chosen when the index patient wants to remain anonymous. General practitioners are advised not to give the index patient medication for the contacts. Instead, the contacts should be examined and informed by qualified personnel. Notification of partner will be a cornerstone in the struggle to control the current epidemic of genital chlamydial infection in Norway.