Sexually transmitted infections (STI) are among the most common causes of illness in the world and have far-reaching health, social and economic consequences for many countries.

The emergence and spread of HIV infection and AIDS have had a major impact on the management and control of STI. At the same time, resistance of several sexually transmitted pathogens to antimicrobial agents has increased, adding to therapeutic problems.

In 1991, WHO published recommendations for the comprehensive management of patients with STI within the broader context of control, prevention and care programmes for STI and HIV infection. WHO convened an Advisory Group Meeting on Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment in May 1999 to review and update treatment recommendations in the light of recent developments (see annex).

This publication presents the revised recommendations, both for a syndromic approach to the management of patients with STI symptoms and for the treatment of specific STI, based on global evidence and surveillance data. It also provides information on the notification and management of sexual partners and on STI in children and adolescents.