By Tom Randall March 9 (Bloomberg) — Genital herpes, a condition that produces painful sores and increases transmission of AIDS, has infected one in six Americans, according to a U.S. survey that shows prevention efforts haven’t stopped outbreaks. The study, conducted from 2005 through 2008, found the infection rate didn’t change significantly from a previous report from 1999 to 2004. It was released today by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. There’s no cure for herpes, which has two forms. Herpes simplex virus type 1 typically causes blisters known as cold sores near the mouth. Type 2 forms blisters near the genitals. Most infected people don’t know they have the virus and spread it to partners through sexual contact even when they’re not experiencing symptoms, according to the CDC . “This study serves as a stark reminder that herpes remains a common and serious health threat,” said Kevin Fenton , director of the CDC’s National Center for STD Prevention. “We are particularly concerned about persistent high rates of herpes among African-Americans, which is likely contributing to disproportionate rates of HIV in the black community.” The data were taken from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a federal report that draws from questionnaires and medical records. GlaxoSmithKline Plc’s Valtrex pill, approved to treat symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks, had sales of $1.29 billion last year. The London-based company also makes an over-the-counter cream called Abreva, which shortens healing time and soothes infections. The amino acid lysine, available as a dietary supplement, has been found in studies to reduce symptoms and outbreaks. To contact the reporter on this story: Tom Randall in New York at trandall6@bloomberg.net .
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Genital Herpes Virus Infects One in Six Americans, Study by U.S. CDC Finds
