Herpes simplex virus type 2 in Brazil: seroepidemiologic survey

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• Genital herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) incidence is increasing worldwide.
• HSV-2 is a primary cause of genital ulcerations among sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
• Investigation into HSV-2 sexual transmission in Brazil was conducted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the prevalence of specific antibodies to HSV-2 in high- and low-risk populations in Brazil.
• To understand the sexual transmission dynamics of genital herpes infection.

Main Methods:

• Blood samples were collected from 155 low-risk blood donors and 105 high-risk individuals (85 HIV-seropositive persons and 20 prostitutes) between February and August 1994.
• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) detecting type-specific antibodies to HSV-2 glycoprotein G was used for screening.
• Questionnaires assessed risk factors for STD acquisition and socioepidemiologic characteristics.

Main Results:

• HSV-2 infection prevalence was 73% among HIV-seropositive individuals and 72% in the overall high-risk group.
• Seroprevalence of HSV-2 was significantly associated with years of sexual activity, prior STDs, number of sexual partners, pregnancies, abortions, and receptive anal intercourse.
• These findings indicate a high burden of HSV-2 infection in at-risk populations.

Conclusions:

• Current diagnostic strategies for genital HSV-2 infection often miss cases.
• Type-specific serologic methods can detect unrecognized or subclinical infections.
• Routine screening for HSV-2 antibodies is recommended for populations at high risk for STDs due to high seroprevalence rates.