Genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection in Australia: epidemiology and clinical implications

Over the last decade, notification rates for genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection in Australia have been rising progressively. While chlamydia is common and possibly increasing in the general population, heterosexual adolescents, indigenous Australians in remote settings, and homosexually active men are at particular risk of infection. Few studies are available on the extent of morbidity from chlamydia-associated diseases. Australia urgently needs a national strategy to control chlamydia, with widespread, selective screening as a key component. As general practitioners have an important role to play, we proffer guidelines for selective testing in primary care.