Mathematical epidemiology of Chlamydia trachomatis infections. Discussion

In this paper I discuss the specific problems that one faces when developing a model for a sexually-transmitted disease (STD) such as infection with Chlamydia trachomatis. I introduce some modelling approaches that take into account the heterogeneity within a population in sexual behaviour, the influence of partnership duration on the dynamics of a STD, and the impact of contact tracing on the effectiveness of STD prevention. Some results are shown that were obtained with a network simulation model specifically designed to describe the transmission dynamics of Chlamydia trachomatis. The model was used to investigate the effects of various screening strategies on the prevalence of asymptomatic Chlamydia infections in women.