A new estimate reveals that around 846 million people aged between 15 and 49 are living with genital herpes infections, accounting for more than 1 in 5 of this age-group globally. This translates to at least 42 million new cases annually. Most people with the infection experience few symptoms, but it can lead to painful sores and blisters that require multiple healthcare visits.
The study’s authors emphasize the need for new treatments and vaccines to reduce the adverse health effects of herpes virus and control its spread. While most people with genital herpes infections have few symptoms, it still causes pain and distress for millions globally, straining already overburdened health systems.
Genital herpes is primarily caused by two types of the herpes simplex virus (HSV), HSV-1 and HSV-2, both of which can lead to genital herpes. According to estimates, 520 million people in 2020 had genital HSV-2, which is transmitted during sexual activity. This type of infection is more serious as it causes recurrent outbreaks, accounts for around 90% of symptomatic episodes, and is linked to a three-fold increased risk of getting HIV.
Condom use can reduce the risks of herpes transmission, but there is currently no cure for genital herpes. To prevent further spread, people with active symptoms should avoid sexual contact. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends offering HIV testing and pre-exposure prophylaxis for those at high risk.
The study’s findings also highlight the significant economic costs associated with genital herpes infections, estimated to be around $35 billion annually worldwide. Researchers are working to advance research and development of new tools for prevention and control of herpes infections, including vaccines, treatments, and topical microbicides.
Source: https://www.who.int/news/item/11-12-2024-over-1-in-5-adults-worldwide-has-a-genital-herpes-infection-who