Global Study: 20% of Adults Aged 15-49 Infected with Herpes

A new WHO report estimates that over 846 million people aged 15-49 globally have genital herpes, with 42 million new infections annually. While many experience few symptoms, the virus can cause painful sores and increase HIV risk. The report highlights the need for better treatments and vaccines to manage the virus and reduce its spread. Genital herpes, primarily caused by HSV-2, poses significant health and economic burdens, costing an estimated $35 billion annually. WHO emphasizes the importance of awareness, prevention, and research to address this widespread infection.