One in five adults in the world has an infection genital herpesaccording to the World Health Institution (WHO). Specifically, 846 million people between the ages of 15 and 49 are living with genital herpes infections, or more than one in five people worldwide, according to new estimates released Wednesday.
According to the WHO it is estimated that, at least, every second a person contracts a new genital herpes infectionwhich represents 42 million people per year.
In most cases, these infections cause no or very few symptoms. Though, For some people they cause painful genital sores and blisters. which can recur throughout one’s life,causing considerable discomfort and often requiring multiple doctor visits. According to WHO estimates,in 2020 more than 200 million people between the ages of 15 and 49 had at least one symptomatic episode of this type.
The authors of the study, published in the magazine ‘Sexually transmitted infections’, They stressed that new treatments and vaccines are needed to reduce the negative health effects of the herpes virus and control its spread.
In this sense, the Director of the WHO Global Programs on HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections, dr. Meg Doherty, stressed that “while most people with genital herpes have few symptoms, with so many infections, genital herpes continues to cause pain and distress to millions of people around the world and puts a strain on already existing health systems overloaded”.
Prevention and treatment
Indeed, he added, “better prevention and treatment options are urgently needed to reduce herpes transmission and will also help reduce HIV transmission.”
There is currently no cure for herpes, although treatments can relieve symptoms. In addition to the wounds, Genital herpes can also cause serious complicationsincluding neonatal herpes, a rare condition that is more likely to occur when a mother is frist infected at an older age. pregnancy and then transmit the virus to your baby during birth.
there are two types of herpes simplex virus (HSV), known as VHS-1 and VHS-2, which can cause genital herpes. An estimated 520 million people were infected with genital HSV-2 in 2020, which is transmitted during sexual activity.
From a public health perspective, genital HSV-2 is more serious, as it is substantially more likely to cause recurrent epidemics, It accounts for approximately 90% of symptomatic episodes and is associated with a three times greater risk of contracting HIV.
problems in childhood
Unlike HSV-2, HSV-1 is spread primarily during childhood through saliva or skin-to-skin contact around the mouth causing oral herpes, the most common symptoms of which are cold sores or cold sores. mouth ulcers.
However, in individuals without prior infection, HSV-1 can be acquired through sexual contact and cause genital infections in adolescence or adulthood. It is estimated that In 2020, 376 million people had HSV-1 genital infections. Of these, about 50 million also have HSV-2, since it is possible to have both types at the same time.
Although 2020 estimates show virtually no difference in genital HSV-2 prevalence compared to 2016, estimated genital HSV-1 infections are higher. In recent years, several countries have observed changes in HSV-1 transmission patterns, with an increase in genital infections in adults and a decline in oral infections in childhood.
The reduction in oral spread during childhood may be related to factors such as less crowded living conditions and to better hygiene, which in turn increases susceptibility to the virus in old age. The authors note that these increases may also partly reflect changes in methods and additional data sources.
Furthermore, the report’s author and medical officer from WHO’s sexual and reproductive health and research department noted, Doctor Sami Gottlieb, “The stigma around genital herpes means that very little has been talked about, despite it affecting millions of people around the world. Not enough is being done to tackle this common infection.”
“Expanding research and investment in the progress of new herpes vaccines and therapies, and their equitable use, coudl play a critical role in improving the quality of life of people around the world,” he added.
Do you want to receive the best content to take care of your health and feel good? Sign up for our new newsletter for free.
How can stigma surrounding genital herpes be effectively reduced to encourage more people to seek treatment?
Time.news Interview: Editor’s dialog with Dr.Meg Doherty
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Meg Doherty! Thank you for joining us today to discuss the alarming statistics surrounding genital herpes and its impact globally. According to the latest estimates from the world Health Institution, one in five adults is infected with this virus. What are your thoughts on these staggering numbers?
Dr. Doherty: Thank you for having me.Yes, the figures are quiet concerning. The fact that 846 million people aged 15 to 49 are living with genital herpes emphasizes how widespread this issue is.Most people are unaware that they have it, as many infections show little to no symptoms. This contributes to the virus’s silent spread.
Editor: That’s an vital point. With every second someone contracting a new infection, it sounds like the virus is spreading at an alarming rate. What are some of the common misconceptions about genital herpes that contribute to this issue?
Dr. Doherty: One of the biggest misconceptions is that herpes is only contracted through sexual activity. While it is a sexually transmitted infection, the reality is that it can also be transmitted through non-sexual contact in certain circumstances. Additionally, many believe that having herpes is a life-altering condition, which can led to stigma and shame, deterring individuals from seeking treatment or discussing their status openly.
Editor: Stigma can be a meaningful barrier.Despite the discomfort and complications some face due to symptomatic episodes, why do you think there hasn’t been a greater emphasis on developing treatments or vaccines for this virus?
Dr. Doherty: Historically, sexually transmitted infections have received less attention and funding compared to other health issues. While we have made strides in the fields of HIV and hepatitis, genital herpes hasn’t been prioritized in the same way. Though, we are advocating for new treatments and vaccines. we really need to change public perception and increase funding to address this growing health concern.
Editor: What do you think could be done to improve awareness and education regarding genital herpes?
Dr. Doherty: Education is key.We need to create more awareness campaigns that target young people specifically, where they can learn about the virus, its transmission, and the importance of regular health check-ups. Sexual health education should integrate discussions about herpes early on. We also need healthcare providers to be better equipped to discuss these issues compassionately, helping to alleviate the stigma.
Editor: As someone deeply involved with the WHO’s initiatives, what immediate steps should individuals take if they suspect they might have been exposed to or are experiencing symptoms of genital herpes?
Dr. Doherty: If someone suspects exposure or is experiencing symptoms like sores or blisters, it’s crucial for them to consult a healthcare provider promptly. Testing can provide clarity and enable individuals to manage their health proactively. Furthermore, early diagnosis can help in discussing risk reduction strategies with partners.
editor: Thank you,Dr. Doherty, for shedding light on such a critical public health issue. Clearly, more awareness, funding, and research into genital herpes are essential to mitigate its widespread impact.
Dr. Doherty: Absolutely! Thank you for the chance to discuss this important topic. Together, we can work towards better health outcomes for millions around the world.
Editor: Thank you for your insights. we look forward to seeing further developments in this area.
