It is estimated that 20% of the American population over the age of 12 is infected with genital herpes. Of those infected as many as 80% don't even known that they have the virus. Genital herpes is caused by one of two Herpes Simplex Viruses (usually HSV II). It causes small sores in, around, and on the genitals, anus, and thighs and is easily transfered to others.
Genital Herpes.
Genital herpes is usually Herpes Simplex Virus II and is passed from touching ones moist genital area to another's. However, it has been discovered in recent times there there is a growing number of cases of Herpes Simplex Virus I being passed to the genitals of another through oral sex. This increase is especially common among people under the age of 25.
Teens and Sexual Activity.
While there has been a surge in sex education and a desire for teenagers to become more educated in the matters of sex, safe sex, teen pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections (STI) there is still a growing number of sexually active teenagers. Many don't know how sexually transmitted infections are passed and don't know how to identify if they have a STI. This can make it difficult to know just how many people have these illnesses and also help prevent the spread of incurable viruses.
Transferring Herpes.
Many people believe that sexually transmitted infections are transmitted through sexual fluids. Many even believe that these are transmitted only through the genital region and don't realize that there is a risk to getting STI's through oral contact. While this may be true for many STI's, this isn't the case with herpes. Genital herpes is spread through skin to skin contact. This can be intercourse, outer course, or even touching the genitals of the other person and then yourself. While the virus won't attack cells of just any part of the skin, it can affect any moist skin cells including those around the genitals, thighs, buttocks, anus, mouth, and around the eyes. This means that any sexual contact can cause the spread of herpes. Because the virus can be shed by the skin around the genitals as well as the skin of the genitals, condoms can help protect, but they don't eliminate all risk. Because many people and teenagers don't know these things it is easier to catch herpes then many other sexually transmitted infections.
Lowered Rates.
Some studies suggest that the number of teenagers infected with genital herpes have decreased significantly over the last ten to twelve years. While this may or may not be true there are a few things to consider. First, there have been an increased number of HSV I cases causing herpes in the population under 25, which are not part of the tests that have been preformed. Second, genital herpes are not reported as many STI's are. This can make it hard to know how many people are infected with it and how many people know that they are infected with it. While we should all hope that the number of herpes cases has indeed decreased, it is important that we teach our teenagers about STI's including herpes and make sure that they know the risks of ALL sexual activities and not just intercourse.
Herpes and Women.
It should also be noted that women are more at risk for herpes then men. This is because of an increased amount of moist skin cells and a lowered immune system caused from hormonal fluctuations of the menstrual cycle. Because of this, it is even more important to teach our young girls their risks.
Education can help make a difference among the population. However, we need to make sure that correct and thorough information be passed on to our teenagers and our young people (not to mention the rest of us). It is important that you take your teenager to the doctor if he or she complains of uncomfortable symptoms in their genital region (whether or not you believe he or she is sexually active).