Socio-demographic and behavioral correlates of herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2 infections and co-infections among adults in the USA.
Int J Infect Dis 2010;
14 Suppl 3:e154-60. [PMID:
20418142 DOI:
10.1016/j.ijid.2009.12.007]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2009] [Revised: 12/09/2009] [Accepted: 12/11/2009] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Although herpes simplex virus (HSV)-1 and HSV-2 may co-exist and interact, some epidemiologic features including geographical distribution, secular trends, route of transmission, and established risk factors may distinguish these HSV sub-types. With recent data indicating a link between genital herpes and either strain, a re-evaluation of risk factors for HSV-1/HSV-2 infection and co-infection is needed.
METHODS
We used the 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Study (NHANES) data and logistic regression modeling to identify socio-demographic and behavioral risk factors that can independently predict HSV-1/HSV-2 infection and co-infection.
RESULTS
Approximately 48% were positive for HSV-1 alone, 7% were positive for HSV-2 alone and 12% were co-infected with HSV-1 and HSV-2. History of genital herpes was found in individuals infected with either or both HSV sub-types. Whereas age, sex, race, and level of education independently predicted all three outcomes, lifetime sexual activity as well as use of tobacco products and recreational drugs mainly correlated with HSV-2 infection and HSV-1/HSV-2 co-infection. Lifetime use of alcohol was not consistently associated with HSV-1/HSV-2 infection and co-infection.
CONCLUSIONS
Sexual activity played an important role for HSV-2 and was potentially important for HSV-1, with implications for healthcare practice and vaccine development.
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