Scabies is caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. The disease can be sexually transmitted. Patients’ main complaint is nocturnal itch. Disseminated, excoriated, erythematous papules are usually seen on the anterior trunk and limbs. Crusted scabies occurs in immunocompromised hosts and may be associated with reduced or absent pruritus. Recommended treatments are permethrin 5% cream, oral ivermectin and benzyl benzoate 25% lotion. Alternative treatments are malathion 0.5% aqueous lotion, ivermectin 1% lotion and sulphur 6–33% cream, ointment or lotion. Crusted scabies therapy requires a topical scabicide and oral ivermectin. Mass treatment of large populations with endemic disease can be performed with a single dose of ivermectin (200 micrograms/kg of bodyweight). Partner management needs a look‐back period of 2 months. Screening for other STI is recommended. Patients and close contacts should avoid sexual contact until completion of treatment and should strictly observe personal hygiene rules when living in crowded spaces. Written information should be provided to suspected cases.

Pediculosis pubis is caused by Phthirus pubis. The disease can be sexually transmitted. Patients main complain is of itch in the pubic area. The parasite can be spotted with the naked eye and blue macules can be observed in the pubic area. First line therapy consists of permethrin or pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide. Second line therapy contains phenothrin, malathion and oral ivermectin. Partner management needs a look‐back period of time of 3 months. Pubic lice incidence is increased in populations groups living in crowded spaces with scarce sanitary conditions as in time of war or disaster.

Background: Partner management is the process of identifying the contacts of a person infected by a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and referral to a health care provider for appropriate management. It represents a public health activity.Methods: This guideline is produced by the IUSTI European Guideline Editorial Board and EDF Guideline Committee.Results: It provides recommendations concerning the infections that require partner management, the lookback periods for this STI and the main steps to follow for partner management (offering support to patients, notifying partners, identification of contacts). Partner management is voluntary and needs to be performed with respect to human rights, social, cultural and religious behaviours.Conclusions: In European countries, there are different approaches to the partner management; some common type of actions can enhance the fight against STI.