Coverage is the key for effective screening of Chlamydia trachomatis in Australia

Abstract

Background. The rate of diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis (chlamydia) infection has risen dramatically in Australia. In response, the Australian government is planning to implement systematic screening and testing. Several decisions must be made, including whom to screen. Methods. To inform decisions surrounding screening, a dynamic transmission model of the chlamydia epidemic was developed and parameterized with Australian sexual behavior and epidemiology data. A range of screening strategies and coverage rates were evaluated targeting various groups based on age and sex. Rigorous uncertainty and sensitivity analyses were undertaken. Results. The model predicts that even moderate screening..