Quick Answer
Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) affects ~1 in 6 adults for HSV-2 and ~50% of adults for HSV-1. It is incurable but manageable with suppressive antivirals. Most people with herpes do not know they have it.
- ~1 in 6 adults has HSV-2; ~50% have HSV-1
- Viral, incurable, suppressible
- Treatment: antivirals for outbreaks or daily suppression
- Most transmission occurs from asymptomatic shedding
Context Most Pages Skip
Herpes is the most misunderstood STI: medically minor for most people, psychologically devastating because of stigma that far exceeds the medical reality.
Key Facts
Suppressive therapy reduces outbreaks and transmission risk by ~50%. Condoms add partial protection. Most people with herpes have mild, infrequent recurrences.
⚕️ This page is educational and does not replace advice from a licensed clinician. If you may have been exposed to an STI, get tested — most infections are manageable, and many are fully curable.
Sources & Further Reading
- CDC — Sexually Transmitted Infections
- CDC STI Treatment Guidelines
- WHO — Sexually transmitted infections fact sheet
- MedlinePlus — Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Figures reflect CDC surveillance and WHO estimates; they are population statistics, not personal risk predictions.