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Background: Chlamydia trachomatis infections are the most commonly reported notifiable disease in the United States. Repeat infections with Chlamydia trachomatis are associated with increased risk for long-term sequelae. In 2007, Mississippi had the highest rate per 100,000 population of chlamydia nationally.
Objectives: To describe the epidemiology of chlamydia infections and risk factors associated with repeat infections among Mississippians.
Methods:We utilized data collected from Sexually Transmitted Disease Management Information System (STD*MIS) for analyses. Repeat infections were defined as two or more chlamydia infections reported during 2004-2008. Characteristics of those with one chlamydia infection were compared to individuals with repeat infections.
Results: From 2004-2008, chlamydia infections were identified in 80,878 Mississippians. Of those with infection, 19% developed one or more repeat infections. The analyses revealed females had the highest rate of both single and repeat infections (87% and 73%). African Americans accounted for 77% of cases among single infections and 63% cases among repeat infections. The mean age of those with single infections was 24 years, compared to 20 years for those with repeat infections.
Conclusions: Repeat infections of chlamydia are very common among youth, females, and African Americans.
Implications for Programs, Policy, and/or Research: Improved strategies are needed to ensure treatment of all male sex partners. Further research should be conducted to assess behavioral factors that are related to repeat chlamydia infections.