HSV-1 now causes more cases of genital herpes: changing transmission trends
HSV-1 now causes more cases of genital herpes: changing transmission trends
When we talk about genital herpes, many people automatically think of HSV-2. However, recent research and clinical practice show that HSV-1 is now responsible for an increasing proportion of genital herpes cases, especially among young adults in Europe and North America.
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This change is primarily due to changing sexual habits, especially an increased prevalence of oral sex as a route of transmission. In this blog post, we explain what the trend means, how HSV-1 differs from HSV-2 in the genital form – and how you can best protect yourself.
What does the new data show?
• In many countries, HSV-1 now accounts for up to 50% of all new genital herpes diagnoses
• Among young people aged 18–30 years, HSV-1 is the most common cause of first-time genital herpes
• The trend is seen especially in countries where fewer children are infected with HSV-1 in childhood – and therefore lack antibodies when they are later exposed to the virus through oral sex
In short: More people get HSV-1 on their genitals because they are not immune and are infected through oral sex.
What is the difference between genital HSV-1 and HSV-2?
|
Factor |
HSV-1 (genital) |
HSV-2 |
|
Typical route of infection |
Oral sex |
Genital-genital contact |
|
Risk of recurrent outbreaks |
Lower |
Higher |
|
Asymptomatic infection |
Rarer |
More frequent |
|
Stigma and prevalence |
Increased, but often overlooked |
Known sexually transmitted disease |
HSV-1 genital typically causes fewer outbreaks and less frequent viral shedding than HSV-2 – but it can still be contagious, and there is no guarantee of a mild course.
How do you protect yourself and your partner?
Even though HSV-1 is common, you should still take your precautions:
• Use a condom or a lip balm during oral sex.
• Avoid sex during an outbreak (regardless of location)
• Respond quickly to symptoms (tingling, burning, blisters)
• Use herpes cream/gel to relieve symptoms
Many people choose QUR herpes gel as an effective remedy at the first signs of an outbreak. The gel soothes and ensures that your outbreak does not become large and long-lasting.
Conclusion
HSV-1 is no longer just “the one with cold sores.” Today, it is also a frequent cause of genital herpes, especially among young people and during oral sex. Understanding this development makes it possible to make better choices, protect yourself and your partner – and respond quickly and effectively, for example with products like QUR herpes gel.
QUR Herpes Gel
Buy your herpes cream here - Effective and discreet treatment of herpes 1 & 2
Buy here!