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The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently provided updated estimates on the global prevalence of genital herpes. According to the report, more than one in five people aged 15 to 49 worldwide are currently living with a genital herpes infection. The WHO further estimated that, on average, one person acquires a new genital herpes infection every second, highlighting the rapid spread of the virus.
Although many infections remain mild or asymptomatic, they still contribute to a high rate of transmission. The estimates also suggest that, in 2020 alone, over 20 crore people experienced at least one symptomatic episode of genital herpes. Despite the majority of infections being either undiagnosed or presenting with minimal or mild symptoms, the high incidence calls for increased awareness, improved prevention strategies, and better access to treatment.
Also Read: Avoid Kissing With Cold Sores: Expert Sheds Light On Its Association With Herpes Infection
What Does The New Report On Genital Herpes Show?
The latest report, based on data from 2020, shares that Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 (HSV-2) is the most common cause of genital herpes globally.
In general, there are two types of the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), known as HSV-1 and HSV-2, both of which can lead to genital herpes. HSV-1 mainly causes oral herpes but can also lead to genital herpes through oral contact. On the other hand, HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes and is spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
The study published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections estimated that 2.56 crore people aged 15–49 years experienced new HSV-2 infections, and 51.95 crore had prevalent HSV-2 infections. For HSV-1, there were 1.68 crore new genital infections and 37.62 crore prevalent cases.
Additionally, 18.79 crore people had at least one episode of Genital Ulcer Disease (GUD), caused by HSV-2, and 1.67 crore by HSV-1. GUD is a condition where the skin or lining in the genital or anal areas breaks down, causing sores, ulcers, or blisters. This highlights the widespread nature of genital HSV infections and the resulting GUD burden. The study calls for new prevention and treatment strategies, such as vaccines, to reduce these infections and their impact on global health.
Understanding How Genital Herpes Spreads
“Genital herpes can be transmitted by engaging in oral, vaginal, or anal intercourse with a person who has the illness,” says Dr Archana Dhawan Bajaj, gynaecologist, obstetrician, and IVF expert at Nurture IVF Clinic, Delhi, adding that the infection can be contracted by contact with a herpes sore, saliva from a partner with an oral herpes infection, vaginal fluids from a partner with a genital herpes infection, skin in the mouth region of a partner with oral herpes, and skin in the genital area of a relationship with genital herpes.
It is also important to know that genital herpes can also spread from a sex partner who does not have a visible sore or is ignorant of the virus.
On the other hand, toilet seats, mattresses, and swimming pools will not transmit herpes. It is also not transmitted by touching goods like silverware, soap, or towels.
How To Prevent Genital Herpes
Some of the effective strategies to reduce your risk of genital herpes or any other form of Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) are:
- Use a condom every time you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
- Avoid sexual intercourse if you or your partner has blisters, sores, or a tingle or itch that means an outbreak is coming.
- The only way to be 100% certain you won't get an STI is to have just one sex partner who has no STDs or STIs, and both of you stay monogamous.
- Have your partner tested for STIs.
- Use a dental dam during oral sex.
Dr Bajaj highly recommends using condoms at all times to prevent the transmission of genital herpes. “Many people will shed the virus and become infectious even if they do not exhibit any symptoms,” she says, adding that studies suggest asymptomatic shedding occurs in 1% to 3% of HSV II genital infections. Many new herpes infections are caused by partners who are asymptomatically releasing the virus; hence, condoms are strongly advised.
Also Read: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Herpes Infection: Who Is Most At Risk Of Serious Illness?
Role Of Regular Screening And Open Communications With Partner
Regular health check-ups and open communication with partners are very important to prevent the spread of genital herpes.
Dr Bajaj says, “Many people don’t know they have the infection because they may not have any symptoms. Screenings can help detect it early, so it can be managed. Talking openly about sexual health builds trust and helps both partners understand the risks and take precautions like using condoms, avoiding intimacy during outbreaks, or taking antiviral medication.”
Additionally, open communication also reduces the stigma around these infections, encouraging more people to get tested and treated.
Treatment Options For Genital Herpes
Unfortunately, there is no treatment for genital herpes. However, an antiviral medication can help alleviate your symptoms. These are most effective when used within two days after the initial symptoms. They can help control outbreaks that are frequent or severe, as well as lower the risk of transmitting the virus to a sexual partner.
To assist in controlling your symptoms, here’s what you can do:
Gently bathe the region with a warm salt solution (1 teaspoon salt to 2 cups water or 1 cup salt in a bath). To relieve discomfort, use paracetamol or ibuprofen. Apply a numbing cream or ointment. If urinating is unpleasant, sit in a warm bath.
Final Word
While genital herpes remains a public health concern, consistent use of condoms, awareness of symptoms, and avoiding sexual contact during active outbreaks can help reduce transmission. According to Dr Bajaj, increasing access to antiviral medications, promoting HIV prevention initiatives, and advancing research for vaccines and other preventive measures are critical steps in addressing this issue. Moreover, recent findings highlight the impact of genital herpes, revealing not only severe health consequences but also high economic burdens, with global healthcare costs and productivity losses estimated at $35 billion annually, underscores Dr Bajaj. These insights highlight the urgent need for a multifaceted approach to the prevention, treatment, and control of genital herpes infections worldwide, she concludes.