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Herpes simplex virus-2 infection. An emerging disease?
1Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, USA.
Infectious Disease Clinics of North America
|March 12, 1998
Summary
Genital herpes infections, caused by HSV-2, are increasing globally. Antiviral therapies show promise in reducing transmission and shedding, offering potential control strategies.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Genital herpes infections caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) are a growing global health concern.
- The transmission of HSV-2 is influenced by various factors, and its prevalence often precedes that of sexually acquired HIV.
- There is a strengthening biological rationale for the link between HIV and HSV, highlighting the need for effective control measures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current epidemiology and transmission dynamics of genital herpes.
- To explore potential strategies for reducing HSV-2 transmission and its associated morbidity.
- To stimulate discussion and encourage the development of control programs for genital herpes.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on genital herpes epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Analysis of the role of antiviral agents in reducing viral shedding.
- Discussion of public health implications of diagnostic test limitations and asymptomatic shedding.
Main Results:
- Antiviral agents demonstrate potential in reducing HSV shedding in both HIV-negative and HIV-positive individuals.
- Imperfect diagnostic tests and frequent asymptomatic shedding contribute significantly to ongoing HSV-2 transmission.
- Effective control strategies may involve patient counseling, screening high-risk populations, and chronic antiviral therapy for certain individuals.
Conclusions:
- A specific program to decrease genital herpes transmission is currently lacking.
- Antiviral therapies offer a promising avenue for reducing HSV shedding and potentially preventing transmission.
- Implementing control measures, including counseling and targeted antiviral therapy, could reduce the morbidity of this re-emerging infectious disease.