Herpes: Why Do Billions of People Live with It and Don't Know?

Have you ever wondered how many people around live with herpes? According to the World Health Organization, it's billions of people worldwide. At the same time, many don't even suspect they are infected. It sounds a bit scary, but let's figure it out without panic.

Two types — two different herpes

Herpes simplex virus comes in two types. The first usually causes "cold sores" on the lips, the second — genital herpes. According to a study published in the WHO Bulletin, in 2016, about 3.7 billion people under the age of 50 were infected with the first type, and approximately 491 million people aged 15–49 with the second type. The numbers are huge, but it's important to understand: for most, infection is asymptomatic or mild.

Why are women at risk?

Women are more susceptible to both viruses — both herpes type 2 and HIV. The risk is especially high for women in the WHO African Region, where herpes prevalence is highest. This doesn't mean every woman will necessarily face the problem, but statistics show that gender differences in vulnerability exist.

Herpes and HIV: is there a link?

People with herpes type 2 are at least three times more likely to acquire HIV when exposed to the virus. This doesn't mean herpes "turns into" HIV, but it can facilitate the entry of the immunodeficiency virus into the body. That's why it's so important to talk about prevention and treatment of herpes — it's part of the overall strategy to curb HIV infection.

Medications exist, but no miracle will happen

It is currently impossible to completely get rid of herpes. Antiviral drugs — such as acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir — help reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms but do not eliminate the virus. They can make life more comfortable but do not replace a vaccine, which does not yet exist.

Scientists emphasize: more affordable medicines and new prevention tools are needed, especially vaccines. According to Dr. Meg Doherty, Director of the WHO Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, a herpes vaccine could not only protect millions of people, especially women, but also help slow the spread of HIV if used alongside other prevention measures.

What does this mean for you?

If you have ever had blisters on your lips or in the genital area, you should see a doctor — they will confirm the diagnosis and prescribe treatment if necessary. Even if there are no symptoms but you want to check your status, you can get tested. Remember: herpes is not a death sentence but a common condition that you can live with fully. The main thing is not to self-medicate and not to believe myths.