Management of asymptomatic sexually transmitted infections in Europe: towards a differentiated, evidence-based approach

Modelling of doxycycline-based prevention of bacterial sexually transmitted infections in comparison to condom-based and test-based prevention

“…In spite of promising modelling results supporting the testing-as-prevention approach for causative agents of bacterial urethritis [ 27 , 33 ], however, epidemiological evidence at least for screening-associated reduction of infection prevalence and associated disease is scarce [ 34 ]. Insofar, the epidemiological balancing of benefit and harm for causative agents other than T. pallidum and HIV is considered as uncertain and screening application for high-risk populations was recently discouraged by a working group unless future high-quality randomized controlled trials provide supportive evidence [ 34 ]. For testing-as-prevention strategies, i.e., testing of potential partners immediately before each intended risky sexual contact with mutual consent, no “real-world” study-based evidence is available as well.…”

“…The statement regarding the uncertain benefit at least of traditional screening strategies [ 34 ] is bad news for high risk-populations, especially for those in which condom use is unpopular. Against gonococci, partial protection due to meningococcal group B outer membrane vesicle-based vaccination has been demonstrated [ 35 ], but such effects in the 30% range are yet poor as a prevention approach on an individualized scale.…”

State of Knowledge on Sexually Transmitted Infections among Health Professionals and Health Sciences Students in France

“…Interestingly, each country has its unique reporting requirements and guidelines. Despite the existing diversity in STI surveillance systems across Europe, similar priorities exist in different nations [61,62]. To enhance our understanding of STI epidemiology and the factors driving transmission across Europe, it is crucial to define standardized minimum datasets.…”

Treatment of bacterial sexually transmitted infections in Europe: gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma genitalium, and syphilis

“…The optimal criteria for screening and the screening interval remain uncertain and should be a research priority (this topic is further discussed in the asymptomatic screening article of this series). 58 Antibiotic efficacy is generally lower for pharyngeal gonorrhoea compared to genital infection, highlighting a need to ensure that new drugs are specifically evaluated for their effectiveness at this site.…”