An estimated 491 million people aged 15–49 (13%) worldwide have HSV-2 infection.
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.
Epidemiology
An estimated 3.7 billion people under age 50 (67%) have HSV-1 infection globally.
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