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Genital herpes
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Abstract
Genital herpes is the main cause of genital ulcers worldwide; the prevalence of herpes
simplex virus (HSV) type 2 infections in the general population ranges from 10% to
60%. Most genital herpes is caused by HSV-2, although HSV-1 accounts for about half
of new cases in developed countries. The risk of HIV acquisition is three times higher
in people with HSV-2. Neonatal herpes is an uncommon but serious complication of genital
herpes. Most genital HSV-2 infections are unrecognised and undiagnosed; infected individuals,
even with mild symptoms, shed HSV, and can infect sexual partners. Since clinical
diagnosis is neither sensitive nor specific, virological and type-specific serological
tests should be used routinely. Oral antiviral drugs for HSV infections are safe and
effective and can be used both to treat episodes and to prevent recurrences. Antiviral
treatment of the infected partners and condom use reduce the risk of sexual transmission
of HSV-2.