[Contact tracing routines for genital chlamydia infections used by Norwegian physicians. A questionnaire study]

Notification of partner(s) is recommended as a measure to control the epidemic of genital chlamydial infection. We surveyed a random sample of Norwegian general practitioners and privately practising gynaecologists. Only one in five general practitioners initiated notification of partner(s) after diagnosing a patient with genital chlamydial infection. A proposed new Communicable Diseases Act will make it mandatory to notify the partner in the event of such infections. 49% of general practitioners are in favour of the proposal, 21% oppose it while 30% remain uncertain. After implementation of similar legislation, Sweden has experienced a decline in the incidence of genital chlamydial infection. We believe increased notification of partner would help to control the Norwegian epidemic.