What percentage of men have HSV-2?

The prevalence of herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) can vary across populations and regions.

What percentage of men have HSV-2? According to estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO), globally, an estimated 11% of men aged 15 to 49 years had HSV-2 infection in 2016.

It's important to note that these figures can vary by geographical location, age groups, and other demographic factors.

Genital herpes is relatively common

Genital herpes is a relatively common disease that affects nearly 10 percent of the population in the United States. It affects people as young as 12. The majority of people with genital herpes may not even know that they have this infectious disease.

This means a person can spread it to his or her sex partners. It affects both men and women, although women have a higher risk of acquiring it. Why are women at higher risk for herpes?

HSV-2 infection is more common in women

HSV-2 infection is more common in women (approximately 1 out of 5 women) than in men (almost 1 out of 9). This may be because male-to-female transmission is easier than female-to-male transmission.

In the United States, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that the prevalence of HSV-2 is higher in women than in men.

According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted from 2015 to 2016, about 11.2% of adults aged 14 to 49 years in the U.S. had HSV-2, with a higher prevalence in women (13.1%) compared to men (8.2%).

It's crucial to interpret these statistics with awareness that prevalence rates can change over time and may be influenced by factors such as sexual behaviors, healthcare practices, and demographic characteristics in different populations.

Additionally, many individuals with HSV-2 may be unaware of their infection due to the presence of asymptomatic shedding or mild symptoms. Regular testing and open communication about sexual health are important aspects of managing and preventing the transmission of HSV-2.

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