Herpes Shedding Patterns Show Wide Risks for Transmission
JAMA 2011;305(14):1441-1449. doi: 10.1001/jama.2011.420
Among patients seropositive for herpes simplex virus type 2, genital shedding is "likely universal," regardless of symptoms, according to a JAMA study.
Researchers followed some 500 seropositive individuals for 2 months, during which the subjects collected daily swabs from the genital area. Rates of viral shedding were twice as high among symptomatic participants, but even asymptomatic subjects showed shedding on 10% of days. In addition, the number of virus copies shed was similar between symptomatic and asymptomatic participants.
The authors say their findings suggest that clinical management of seropositive — but asymptomatic — patients should include anticipatory guidance on recognizing genital symptoms as well as counseling on condom use, valacyclovir therapy, and the need to disclose serostatus to sexual partners.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
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