Last updated:
06 September 2004
1. Reason for surveillance
- To monitor the epidemiology of the disease and so inform prevention strategies.
2. Case definition
A confirmed case requires laboratory definitive evidence. Laboratory definitive evidence
- Isolation of Chlamydia trachomatis, or
- Detection of C. trachomatis by nucleic acid testing, or
- Detection of C. trachomatis antigen.
Clinical evidence
Not applicable Epidemiological evidence
Not applicable Factors to be considered in case identification
Clinical manifestations of chlamydial infections are difficult to distinguish from gonorrhoea. Symptoms are not necessarily present in all cases.
3. Notification criteria and procedure
Chlamydia trachomatis infection of any site is to be notified by laboratories on microbiological confirmation (ideal reporting by routine mail). Only confirmed cases should be entered onto NDD.
4. The disease?
Infectious agent
The bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Mode of transmission
Contact with exudate from mucous membranes of infected people, almost always as a result of sexual activity or perinatal transmission. Timeline
The typical incubation period is poorly defined, probably 7 to 14 days or more. The period of communicability is unknown. Relapses are common, and an infected person may be intermittently infectious over many months. Clinical presentation
Many infections are asymptomatic. The usual clinical presentation in males is a urethral discharge. Proctitis may be a presentation of the disease in persons who practise receptive anal intercourse. In females, mucopurulent cervicitis is the usual presentation. Congenital chlamydia generally presents as conjunctivitis or pneumonia in neonates.
5. Managing Single Notifications
Response times
Data entry
Within 5 working days of notification enter on NDD confirmed cases only. Response procedure
Where a case is reported in a child <16 years old the PHU must send a letter to the treating doctor outlining his/her obligation to notify the Department of Community Services. Case management
Investigation and treatment
In general, the attending medical practitioner is responsible for treatment. Refer to: Therapeutic guidelines: Antibiotics. Education
In general, the case's doctor provides educational and counselling. The medical practitioner should provide information to the case about the nature of the infection and the mode of transmission. Contact Management
Identification of contacts
Sexual contacts usually up to 6 months depending on symptoms. Investigation and treatment
The attending doctor is responsible for contact tracing. PHU's should work with Sexual Health Service Staff to assist if requested. Contacts require counselling, examination, testing and are usually tested.
6. Managing Special Situations
Case clustering
Case clustering, for example among clients of a sex industry establishment, may indicate the need to initiate an education and/or screening program to meet local requirements.
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