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Genital Herpes

Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection primarily caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), though herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is increasingly implicated in genital infections, particularly among younger populations. Transmission occurs mainly through sexual contact, with asymptomatic viral shedding serving as a major route of spread. This characteristic makes HSV-2 difficult to control at a population level, as individuals may unknowingly transmit the virus even in the...

Herpes

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Herpes simplex type 1 (HSV‑1) is a widespread pathogen responsible for orolabial lesions. It is an enveloped, double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) virus belonging to the family Herpesviridae. Once the virus infects a host cell, its double‑stranded DNA genome is delivered into the nucleus, where a coordinated cascade of immediate‑early, early, and late gene expression directs viral DNA replication, structural protein synthesis, and virion assembly. After primary infection of epithelial cells, HSV-1...

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Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases transmitted primarily through unsafe sexual interactions. Bacteria, viruses, or parasites cause them and can result in severe health complications if untreated.ChlamydiaThe bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis is responsible for the disease Chlamydia, the most common STI in the United States. This peculiar pathogen requires human cells to reproduce, residing intracellularly. The initial infection often goes unnoticed because it typically does not...

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Trichomonas vaginalis is a flagellated protozoan parasite and the causative agent of trichomoniasis, one of the most prevalent non-viral sexually transmitted infections in the United States. This extracellular parasite primarily colonizes the lower genitourinary tract in women—particularly the vagina—and in men, the urethra and prostate. Its structural and functional adaptations enable its survival, motility, and pathogenicity within the host environment.Structural Features and Host EntryT.

Cytomegalovirus Disease

Cytomegalovirus Disease

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease is caused by human cytomegalovirus, a double-stranded DNA virus of the Herpesviridae family. While primary CMV infection is often asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals, the virus can cause severe disease in neonates and immunocompromised patients. CMV is the most common cause of congenital viral infection in the United States, and a major pathogen in solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients.CMV is transmitted via bodily fluids, sexual...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 30, 2026

Isolation of Lymphocytes from Mouse Genital Tract Mucosa

Isolation of Lymphocytes from Mouse Genital Tract Mucosa

Published on: September 3, 2012

Herpes simplex virus genital infections: current concepts.

Carolyn Gardella¹

¹Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Box 356460, Seattle, WA, 98195-6460, USA, cgardel@u.washington.edu.

Current Infectious Disease Reports

|August 24, 2011

Summary

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection that often goes undiagnosed. Primary prevention strategies are crucial to reduce the disease burden and prevent transmission, especially given its links to HIV and neonatal infections.

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Area of Science:

Infectious Diseases
Public Health
Virology

Background:

Genital herpes is a prevalent sexually transmitted disease (STD).
It is frequently undiagnosed, contributing to its spread.
Viral shedding, often asymptomatic, facilitates transmission to sexual partners.

Purpose of the Study:

To highlight the public health significance of genital herpes.
To underscore the need for effective primary prevention strategies.
To discuss the implications of genital herpes on HIV transmission and neonatal health.

Main Methods:

Literature review on genital herpes epidemiology and transmission.
Analysis of viral shedding patterns and asymptomatic transmission.
Examination of the interplay between genital herpes and HIV infection.
Review of neonatal herpes transmission risks.

Main Results:

Genital herpes is widespread and often asymptomatic, leading to frequent undiagnosed cases.
Asymptomatic viral shedding is a primary driver of sexual transmission.
Genital herpes increases the risk of HIV acquisition and transmission.
Neonatal herpes poses a severe risk during childbirth.

Conclusions:

Primary prevention of genital herpes is essential for public health.
Reducing the burden of genital herpes can mitigate its impact on HIV transmission.
Effective prevention measures are needed to protect neonates from herpes infection.