Herpes revisited. Still a cause of concern

The American Social Health Association (ASHA) surveyed people with herpes about their experiences with the disease and its effect on their lives. A systematic sample of 5,000 was chosen from approximately 10,000 readers of the helper, ASHA's quarterly journal for people with herpes. Of the sample, 3,120 returned completed surveys, which addressed medical history, health-care experience, treatment, personal impact, and demographic information. Data analysis was descriptive, consisting of observed frequencies and cross-tabulations. Data illustrated that the psychosocial impact of herpes can be serious and long-lasting. Diagnosis is often associated with emotional upheaval, and dissatisfaction with diagnosing health-care providers was common. Over one-half of the respondents reported feelings of depression and fear of rejection in the last year. Sexual enjoyment and activity also were negatively affected by herpes. These results may be instructive to those delivering health services by providing insight into the significant impact of herpes on those infected.