Viral Shedding with Asymptomatic HSV-2 Infection

Both symptomatic and asymptomatic HSV-2 disease are associated with frequent viral shedding.

Asymptomatic herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection is well described, but its natural history and relative transmissibility remain unclear. In this prospective study, researchers evaluated the frequency of viral shedding and genital lesions among 88 adults with newly diagnosed, asymptomatic HSV-2 disease and 410 adults with previously identified, symptomatic HSV-2 infection. All study participants collected genital swabs daily for at least 30 days and maintained symptom diaries. Median follow-up was 57 days.

Individuals with asymptomatic HSV-2 infection had a significantly lower frequency of viral shedding than individuals with symptomatic infection (10.2% vs. 20.1% of all observation days). However, shedding was still found at least…

Reviewing Author

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Viral Shedding with Asymptomatic HSV-2 Infection

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Reviewing Author