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The Prevalence of Herpes in Teens

Herpes is a serious epidemic among the teens in our society. The main reason for the rapid spreading is due to the fact that many teens are living with the herpes virus yet not even knowing that they have it. A teen can spread herpes to other people and not even be aware that they are doing it. Acting as a carrier, they may show no signs or symptoms of the disease yet still have it. Below I have listed some facts about herpes that help us to understand why it is such a common, and a serious risk for the teens of America.

There are two types of herpes caused by the herpes simplex virus; HSV-1 and HSV-2.

HSV-2 is known as genital herpes, and HSV-1 is usually orally present however may also spread to the genitals.

HSV cannot live outside of the body for very long so it is caught through sexual contact.

Just because sores may not be present the HSV remains in the body forever and may reactivate itself over and over.

Even though a blister isn't present doesn't mean that the virus cannot be spread.

1 in 4 people suffer from the Herpes virus.

Teens are at a major risk for herpes because they are more likely to engage in oral sex as they are less likely to take it as a serious sexual act. Many teens do not see this as sexual intercourse, and don't realize that the risk for STD's is still a major concern and is definetly present with oral sex.

Teens are also under the pressure from their peers, and their sexual activity sometimes becomes competitive. They may feel an internal pressure to keep up with their friends or classmates and engage in activity without taking it seriously. Teens may simply perform sexual acts for attention or to impress others.

Also, herpes is more prevalent among teens due to the fact that the media presents it so casually. When shows that are focused toward teenagers present sexual activity as the norm for them, or as a casual act, it seems inevitable that teens will follow suit. It is only natural that teens will emulate what is presented to them as the standard.

The only way to decrease the spread of herpes among teens is through proper education on the topic. If teens are taught about how herpes is spread and what can be done to prevent it, they will be aware of their risk. They must also be made aware that oral sex is a major transmission method and that it should be taken seriously.

Learn more about this author, Liz Lagerstedt.
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