Vaccine value profile for herpes simplex virus

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2) are widespread chronic infections causing significant global morbidity.
• HSV-2 is a primary cause of genital ulcer disease and increases HIV acquisition risk.
• Both HSV types cause neonatal herpes and neurological conditions, necessitating effective control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the vaccine value profile (VVP) for HSV-1 and HSV-2.
• To provide a holistic assessment of available data on potential HSV vaccines.
• To inform the public health, economic, and societal value of pipeline HSV vaccines.

Main Methods:

• The study discusses the vaccine value profile (VVP) for HSV.
• The VVP was developed by subject matter experts from diverse organizations.
• Assessment utilized existing and publicly available information.

Main Results:

• Vaccination is identified as the most efficient strategy to mitigate the global impact of HSV infections.
• Prophylactic vaccines aim to prevent infection in susceptible individuals, while therapeutic vaccines target those with symptomatic genital HSV-2.
• The VVP aims to identify current research and knowledge gaps in HSV vaccine development.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive VVP is essential for evaluating the potential impact of HSV vaccines.
• Addressing knowledge gaps through VVP is critical for advancing vaccine development and implementation.
• The development of effective HSV vaccines holds significant promise for reducing disease burden worldwide.