13 Dec 2024 • Around 846 million people aged between 15 and 49 are living with genital herpes infections – more than 1 in 5 of this age-group globally – according to new estimates by the WHO.

According to the estimates, more than 200 million people aged 15 to 49 suffered at least one such symptomatic episode in 2020.

According to the estimates, 520 million people in 2020 had genital HSV-2, which is transmitted during sexual activity. From a public health perspective, genital HSV-2 is more serious since it is substantially more likely to cause recurrent outbreaks, accounts for around 90% of symptomatic episodes, and is linked to a three-fold increased risk of getting HIV.

In line with its Global Health Sector Strategy on HIV, viral hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections for 2022-2030, WHO works to increase awareness about genital herpes infections and related symptoms, improve access to antiviral medications, and promote related HIV prevention efforts.

Source: WHO | Read Full Story