Genital Herpes on the Rise

Genital Herpes: A Growing Concern Worldwide

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released new estimates suggesting around 846 million people aged between 15 and 49 live with a genital herpes infection.

That’s equivalent to one in every five people from that age group.

At least one person each second (42 million people annually) contracts a new genital herpes infection.

First, what causes genital herpes?

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus, which also causes cold sores.

There are two types of herpes simplex virus, HSV-1 and HSV-2 (and it’s possible to be infected by both at the same time).

HSV-1 most commonly spreads through oral contact such as kissing or sharing infected objects such as lip balm, cups or utensils, and presents as cold sores (or oral herpes) around the mouth. But it can also be sexually transmitted to cause a genital herpes infection.

An estimated 3.8 billion people under the age of 50 (64%) globally have HSV-1.

HSV-2 is less prevalent, but almost always causes a genital herpes infection. Some 520 million people aged 15–49 (13%) worldwide are believed to have HSV-2.

Changing Trends

WHO’s recent figures brought together data from around the world to estimate the prevalence of genital herpes in 2020 compared with previous estimates in 2012 and 2016.

This data shows no significant difference in the prevalence of genital herpes caused by HSV-2 since 2016, but does highlight increases in genital herpes infections caused by HSV-1.

The estimated number of genital HSV-1 infections globally was nearly twice as high in 2020 compared with 2016 (376 million compared with 192 million).

There’s no simple fix, but safe sex is important

Genital herpes causes a substantial disease burden and economic cost to health-care services.

With such a large proportion of the world’s population infected with HSV-1, evidence this virus is increasingly causing genital herpes is concerning.

There’s no cure for genital herpes, but some medications, such as antivirals, can help reduce the amount of virus present in the system. While this won’t kill it completely, it helps to prevent symptomatic genital herpes recurrences, improve quality of life, and minimize the risk of transmission.

To prevent the spread of genital herpes and other STIs, practise safe sex particularly if you’re not sure of your partner’s sexual health. You need to use a barrier method such as condoms to protect against STIs (a contraceptive such as the pill won’t work). This includes during oral sex.

Immune Health

If you are infected with HSV-1 or HSV-2 it’s more likely symptoms will appear when you’re stressed tired or overwhelmed. During these times, our immune system may not be as functional, and dormant viruses such as herpes can start to develop quickly in our bodies.

To reduce the risk of recurrent herpes infections, try to eat healthily get at least seven hours of sleep each night if possible, and look out for when your body may be telling you to take a step back and relax. This self-care can go a long way towards keeping latent viruses and bay

Conclusion

While the prevalence has increased significantly in recent years, we have not lost the war on genital herpes just yet. Safe sexual practices, education and awareness can help reduce its spread, and the stigma around it.

If you have personal concerns, you should discuss them with a medical professional.

FAQs

What is genital herpes?
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2).

Is genital herpes contagious?
Yes, genital herpes is highly contagious and can be spread through sexual contact with an infected person, even if they have no symptoms.

Can genital herpes be cured?
There is no cure for genital herpes, but antiviral medications can help reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms.

How can I prevent the spread of genital herpes?
Practising safe sex by using condoms and getting tested regularly can help prevent the spread of genital herpes and other STIs.

What are the symptoms of genital herpes?
Symptoms of genital herpes can include painful blisters or sores on the genital area, which can be itchy, swollen, and uncomfortable.

How common is genital herpes?
According to WHO estimates, around 846 million people aged 15-49 worldwide live with a genital herpes infection, which is equivalent to one in every five people from that age group.