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[Herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2 in Switzerland]
B Laubereau1, M Zwahlen, B Neuenschwander
1Infektiologie-/Vakzinologie-Zentrum, Universitäts-Kinderspital beider Basel.
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift
|March 4, 2000
Summary
Genital herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infections are increasing globally. This study reveals significant HSV-2 seroprevalence in Switzerland, highlighting the need for further epidemiological research and potential vaccine development.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Genital herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infections show a worldwide increase.
- Asymptomatic seropositive individuals are a key transmission route for HSV-2.
- Limited epidemiological data exists for HSV-2 in Europe, particularly Switzerland.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the seroprevalence of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and HSV-2 in a low-risk Swiss population.
- To estimate annual seroconversion rates for HSV-1 and HSV-2 in Switzerland.
- To assess the epidemiological significance of HSV-2 infections in Switzerland.
Main Methods:
- Serological examinations were conducted on 151 adult volunteers in the Basel region in 1997.
- Participants were from a low-risk population with no history of genital herpes or other STDs.
- HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibody prevalence and seroconversion rates were calculated.
Main Results:
- Overall HSV-1 seroprevalence was 77% with an annual seroconversion rate of 4.6%.
- HSV-2 seroprevalence was 14.6% in women and 8.1% in men.
- Estimated annual HSV-2 seroconversion rates were 0.61% for women and 0.49% for men post-1985.
Conclusions:
- Herpes simplex virus type 2 infections represent a significant public health concern in Switzerland.
- Further detailed studies are required to accurately describe HSV-2 epidemiology.
- The findings support ongoing research into HSV infection vaccines.