WHO Warns over 1 in 5 Adults Globally Affected by Genital Herpes Infections

New Delhi: A staggering 846 million people aged 15 to 49—more than one in five globally—are living with genital herpes infections, according to new estimates released by the World Health Organization (WHO).

A joint study published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections provides detailed modelling analyses and highlights the pressing need for prevention and treatment measures to combat this persistent and widespread sexually transmitted infection (STI).

The study, titled "Estimated global and regional incidence and prevalence of herpes simplex virus infections and genital ulcer disease in 2020," provides comprehensive estimates, revealing that 26 million people aged 15–49 acquired new HSV-2 infections in 2020.

Additionally, 16.8 million people in the same age group were newly infected with genital HSV-1. While HSV-2 is the leading cause of recurrent genital ulcer disease (GUD), HSV-1 increasingly contributes to genital infections, especially in regions where oral transmission during childhood has declined.

More than 204 million people globally suffered at least one symptomatic episode of herpes-related GUD in 2020. HSV-2 accounted for 90% of these cases. "Genital HSV infections have a high incidence and prevalence worldwide, contributing to a significant GUD disease burden," noted the authors of the study. Beyond health impacts, herpes infections incur major economic costs, with an estimated $35 billion spent annually on healthcare and lost productivity.

Highlighting the global challenge, Dr. Meg Doherty, Director of WHO’s Global HIV, Hepatitis, and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, stated, “While most people with a genital herpes infection experience few symptoms, with so many infections genital herpes still causes pain and distress for millions globally and strains already overburdened health systems. Better prevention and treatment options are urgently needed to reduce herpes transmission and will also contribute to reducing the transmission of HIV.”

The study echoes these concerns, emphasizing the critical role of new interventions. "Estimates of the incidence and prevalence of HSV infections and GUD are essential for informing policy, advocacy, resource planning, and guiding the development of new products such as vaccines," the researchers explained.

The study also sheds light on shifting transmission dynamics. While HSV-2 is predominantly transmitted through sexual activity, HSV-1, traditionally associated with oral infections, is increasingly being acquired genitally through sexual contact during adolescence and adulthood. According to the report, HSV-2 infection also triples the risk of HIV acquisition, underscoring the epidemiological synergy between the two infections.

Dr. Sami Gottlieb, Medical Officer at WHO, added, “Stigma around genital herpes means it has been discussed too little, despite affecting millions of people globally. Not enough has been done to address this common infection. Expanded research and investment in developing new herpes vaccines and therapies, and their equitable use, could play a critical role in improving quality of life for people around the world.”

Although there is no cure for herpes, current treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce outbreaks. Preventive measures like consistent condom use and avoiding sexual contact during active outbreaks remain crucial.

WHO also recommends integrating herpes prevention with HIV testing and pre-exposure prophylaxis for high-risk individuals. Its Global Health Sector Strategy for 2022–2030 prioritizes advancing research on vaccines, topical microbicides, and improved antiviral medications.

By addressing herpes infections with a comprehensive approach, WHO and global health stakeholders aim to alleviate the burden of this pervasive STI while contributing to broader public health objectives.