Serologic screening for herpes simplex virus among university students: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health
• Psychology

Background:

• Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2) is a common sexually transmitted infection.
• University students represent a population where HSV-2 screening may be considered.
• Assessing the feasibility and impact of HSV-2 testing in this demographic is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the practicality of serologic testing for HSV-2 in a university student population.
• To determine the psychosocial effects of receiving an HSV-2 diagnosis among students.
• To identify resource needs for supporting students diagnosed with HSV-2.

Main Methods:

• A convenience sample of 100 university students (aged 18-39) without prior genital herpes history were recruited.
• Participants underwent HSV-2 antibody testing using Focus ELISA and Western Blot assays.
• Psychological functioning was assessed via questionnaires, with a subset completing a 3-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• The study identified low reliability of HSV-2 testing within the student population.
• Positive HSV-2 test results were associated with a potential decline in psychological well-being.
• Significant resources are necessary to provide adequate support for students receiving positive HSV-2 diagnoses.

Conclusions:

• Consideration of test performance is essential before implementing HSV-2 screening programs in universities.
• The potential psychological impact on students must be evaluated.
• Adequate counseling and support resources are critical for students with positive HSV-2 diagnoses.