Simplex 2 infections or genital herpes are reducing in numbers. This is according to recently published government figures. In this article, we examine what Simplex 2 Infection is, while also looking at the reasons for the decline in Simplex 2 infection rates in the US.
What Is Simplex 2 Infection
There are two different types of herpes or Simplex infections. Simplex 1 or oral herpes affects the mouth, while the Simplex 2 infection or genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection. Both types are contagious and require treatment.
When it comes to genital herpes, many people who have this infection, may not be aware of it and show no symptoms. Only a few suffer from painful blisters or sores. In both cases, sexual contact spreads the Simplex 2 infection from one person to another. Someone may also contract the infection through oral sex if the partner has the Simplex 1 infection.
Wearing the condom can only reduce the risk, however, infection is still possible.
Figures in Decline but Still High
So, how have the Simplex 2 infection rates in the US changed? Between 1999 and 2000, 59% of Americans, aged between 14 and 49, had the Simplex 1 and 18% the Simplex 2 infection. The 2015-2016 figures look much better with only 48% suffering from Simplex 1 and 12% from Simplex 2 infection.
Scientists involved in the study believe that the drop is down to improved hygiene and safe sex practices. In addition, they’ve also reiterated that there’s no cure for the Simplex 1 and 2 infections, so once you’ve got it, you’ll have it for life. This means that the reduction is merely down to fewer people getting infected in the first instance.
The Simplex 2 infection rates in the US have been reducing and one would hope that this trend will continue.
