This report was prepared at the direction of John M. Douglas, Jr., M.D., Director, Division of STD Prevention, NCHSTP, CDC. It summarizes the available literature on expedited partner therapy (EPT) for the management of the partners of persons with STD and interprets the results. It also incorporates perspectives gained from two expert consultations, one that predominantly addressed the scientific evidence related to EPT and a second that emphasized operational issues that will affect implementation of EPT. The report serves as background on EPT and provides the evidence in support of anticipated guidelines for the selective use of EPT. It is intended as a reference document for use by CDC and by public health agencies, other organizations, interested individuals, and other partners in the public and private sector.

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