Prevalence of Genital Herpes and Antiviral Treatment

Abstract

Background Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Contemporary US population–based epidemiologic data on genital herpes are limited. This study aimed to provide nationally representative estimates of genital herpes prevalence and treatment using a large US health insurance claims database. Methods This observational cohort study used administrative claims data from HealthVerity. Crude and age- and sex-standardized prevalence rates of genital herpes and recurrent genital herpes were calculated for the years 2019 to 2021. The distribution of patients with prevalent genital herpes who received episodic or suppressive antiviral therapy was also estimated. Results From 2019 to 2021, the standardized prevalence of genital herpes and recurrent genital herpes ranged from 236 to 280 cases per 100,000 person-years and 81 to 98 cases per 100,000 person-years, respectively. The prevalence of genital herpes was highest among those aged 25 to 29 years (prevalence range, 497–582 years), female patients (prevalence range, 348–404 years), and those with a history of HIV infection (prevalence range, 1608–2080 years). The prevalence of recurrent genital herpes was also highest in these groups. From 2019 to 2021, two-thirds of patients (65%–68%) with prevalent genital herpes received antiviral medications; the majority received episodic therapy (80%) rather than suppressive therapy (20%). Conclusions The burden of genital herpes and recurrent genital herpes in the United States is substantial, with the highest rates observed in young adults, women, and immunocompromised individuals. About two-thirds receive antiviral treatment each year.