Social network methods for endemic foci of syphilis: a pilot project.

Background: Social network methods have improved our understanding of sexually transmitted disease transmission dynamics, and may be of use in routine field operations for partner notification.

Goal: To augment traditional syphilis-control activities with social network methods in an Atlanta area with high syphilis morbidity.

Study Design: Disease investigators conducted interviews, used network diagrams to prioritize their work, and relied on network connections for finding hard-to-reach persons.