Investigation of a cluster of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia cases among heterosexual Micronesians living on Oahu.
A recent case investigation of secondary syphilis in a 27-year-old heterosexual Micronesian male and his 19-year-old chlamydia and syphilis co-infected female partner, conducted by the Hawaii State Department of Health, June to August 2007, identified a cluster of 13 case-patients with undiagnosed syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. The social network of Micronesians uncovered was characterized by having transient accommodations but a central gathering place. The critical factor in gaining access to this network was the establishment of a trusting relationship with a key social network member. Field interviews and the application of field diagnostic techniques helped to identify case-patients who otherwise would not have presented to a traditional office or clinic setting. Micronesians in Hawaii represent an at-risk population for adverse health indices including sexually transmitted diseases, based on their socioeconomic status.
Katz
Alan R
AR
Department of Public Health Sciences, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Biomedical Sciences Building, Room D104 M, 1960 East-West Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA. katz@hawaii.edu
Cadorna
Adrianne M
AM
Lee
Maria Veneranda C
MV
Komeya
Alan
A
Kiaha
Mandy
M
Ohye
Roy G
RG
D000328:Adult; D002690:Chlamydia Infections / Q000453:epidemiology*; D004196:Disease Outbreaks; D005260:Female; D006069:Gonorrhea / Q000453:epidemiology*; D006254:Hawaii / Q000453:epidemiology; D020010:Heterosexuality / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008849:Micronesia / Q000208:ethnology; D012307:Risk Factors; D013587:Syphilis / Q000453:epidemiology*