A new report is out on the prevalence of herpes simplex virus, type 2 (HSV-2) in the United States between 2005 and 2008 and it shows some interesting statistics.
- About 16% of Americans between 14 and 49 years old have genital herpes.
- This percentage is about the same as 1999 to 2004 data.
- 81% of those infected with HSV-2 have not been diagnosed.
- More women and non-Hispanic blacks have HSV-2 than any other demographic.
- 21% of women have HSV-2 which is almost double the prevalence in men.
- 39% of non-Hispanic blacks have HSV-2 which is 3 times higher than the prevalence in whites.
Currently blood tests to determine the presence of antibodies to HSV-2 are not recommended routinely, but the following populations might benefit:
- People with multiple sex partners
- People who are HIV positive
- Men who have sex with men
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