Do You Have Herpes?

Guess what? You probably have herpes, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

New findings published in the journal PLOS ONE show that some 3.7 billion people under age 50 are carriers of the type 1 (HSV-1) virus--more commonly referred to as oral herpes. The number is in addition to the other 417 million between the ages of 17-49 who also have the other form of the disease--HSV-2 or genetical herpes, according to Reuters. 

Though HSV-1 typically only results in mouth ulcers, it can also cause genital infections, in some cases, through oral sex.

"The new estimates highlight the crucial need for countries to improve data collection for both HSV types and sexually transmitted infections in general," said Dr. Marleen Temmerman, director of WHO's Department of Reproductive Health and Research.

"Access to education and information on both types of herpes and sexually transmitted infections is critical to protect young people's health before they become sexually active," added Dr. Marleen Temmerman, director of WHO's Department of Reproductive Health and Research. "The new estimates highlight the crucial need for countries to improve data collection for both HSV types and sexually transmitted infections in general."

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