Very interesting research on syphilis outbreaks just published in Nature. Apparently the prevalence of the disease is cyclical, caused by a negative feedback loop. High periods induce greater immunity in the human population, which then establishes enough resistance to bring the prevalence down to very low levels, which persist until the immunity gradually declines again. Then an oubreak occurs and the cycle repeats.
What this means in practical terms, is the disease might be eradicated during the trough phase by concentrating disease control efforts at that phase of the cycle.
It's nice to see something so simple and predictable in epidemiology, in ways that could better people's lives.
Quote:
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In the past, syphilis outbreaks often were attributed to such social phenomena as the sexual revolution or the gay liberation movement. In fact, they are caused by a loss of immunity among those at risk of infection, according to research published Wednesday in Nature.
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http://health.dailynewscentral.net/c...iew/000340/43/