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Herpes simplex virus

General Information

The Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is categorized into 2 types: HSV-1 and HSV-2.

Transmission

HSV-1 is mainly transmitted by oral-to-oral contact, causing oral herpes (including symptoms known as cold sores), but it can also lead to genital herpes.

HSV-2 is a sexually transmitted infection that causes genital herpes.

Both types of HSV can cause an eye infection (Herpes simplex ophthalmicus) which can lead to blinding complications. ​

Symptoms

Most HSV infections are asymptomatic, but symptoms of herpes include painful blisters or ulcers that can recur over time.

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Epidemiology

An estimated 491 million people aged 15–49 (13%) worldwide have HSV-2 infection.​

An estimated 3.7 billion people under age 50 (67%) have HSV-1 infection globally.

Vaccines
Pipeline

1
Vaccines in
the pipeline

Technology Platforms

DEVELOPMENT PHASES

  • Phase I (1)

TRIAL POPULATION

  • Adults (1)

Sources: 
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/herpes-simplex-virus
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559194/
[Accessed: November 2022]

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