Epidemiology of herpes simplex
Epidemiology of Herpes Simplex
Herpes simplex (pronunciation: /ˈhɜːrpiːz ˈsɪmplɛks/) is a viral infection caused by the Herpes simplex virus. The term "herpes" comes from the Greek word "herpein," which means "to creep," referring to the nature of the virus that creeps along nerve pathways.
There are two types of Herpes simplex virus: Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 primarily causes oral herpes, which leads to sores or blisters on or around the mouth, commonly known as cold sores. HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes, a sexually transmitted infection.
Epidemiology
The Epidemiology of herpes simplex is significant as the virus is widespread around the world and causes a range of diseases. The World Health Organization estimates that 3.7 billion people under the age of 50, or 67% of the population, have HSV-1 infection. The prevalence of HSV-2 infection is lower, with an estimated 417 million people aged 15-49 worldwide, or 11% of the population, infected.
The prevalence of herpes simplex virus varies widely by region and population group. In general, HSV-1 infection is more common in developed countries and urban areas, while HSV-2 infection is more common in developing countries and rural areas. The transmission of HSV-1 often occurs in childhood, while HSV-2 is usually transmitted sexually.
Related Terms
- Virus: A small infectious agent that can only replicate inside the cells of another organism.
- Infection: The invasion and multiplication of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites that are not normally present within the body.
- Sexually transmitted infection: An infection that is spread by sexual contact.
- Epidemiology: The study and analysis of the distribution, patterns and determinants of health and disease conditions in defined populations.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Epidemiology of herpes simplex
- Wikipedia's article - Epidemiology of herpes simplex
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