Genital herpes infects 1 in 5 people... More than one person is infected every second.

Approximately 846 million people aged 15 to 49 are infected with genital herpes, which accounts for 1 in 5 individuals in this age group worldwide, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced on the 11th (local time).

 

The WHO reported that at least one person is infected with a new genital herpes virus every second, resulting in approximately 42 million new cases annually.

 

However, most people have few or no symptoms, so this virus often remains a 'silent health issue' because there are no preventive vaccines or treatments available.

 

HSV-2 is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and accounts for 90% of all HSV symptoms. Blisters or ulcers may develop around the genitals.

 

HSV-1 is typically transmitted through oral contact and causes cold sores (lip herpes).

 

According to a study published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections, approximately 520 million people were infected with HSV-2 as of 2020. HSV-2 increases the risk of HIV infection, the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), by three times.

 

As of 2000, approximately 376 million people worldwide are infected with HSV-1. Of these, an estimated 50 million are also simultaneously infected with HSV-2. HSV-1 is transmitted through saliva or skin contact during childhood, causing oral herpes, but it can also lead to genital infections through sexual contact.

 

A recent online viral video features a British doctor's warning that kissing should be avoided for infants under three months old due to the risk of infections such as herpes.

 

According to research, the pattern of HSV-1 transmission has recently changed in some countries. Instead of decreasing childhood oral infections, there is a growing concern about genital infections, which significantly increase the risk of HIV infection and pose a public health problem. Additionally, if a woman becomes infected with this virus late in pregnancy, it can lead to rare but serious risks similar to neonatal herpes. When a newborn is infected with the herpes virus, they are exposed to risks such as encephalitis, seizures, spinal cord damage, vision impairment, and permanent brain damage.

 

There is no cure for herpes. Only treatments that can alleviate symptoms are available.

 

The WHO recommended using condoms during sexual intercourse and avoiding sexual contact when symptoms appear to reduce the risk of transmission. Additionally, they stated that they are seeking fundamental solutions such as developing vaccines and targeted treatments for prevention.

 

"Better prevention and treatment options are urgently needed to reduce herpes transmission, which will also contribute to decreasing HIV transmission," said Dr. Meg Doherty, head of HIV and sexually transmitted infections at WHO. This is increasing.