Seroprevalence of Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 in An STD Clinic in Miami

Background: Interest in the seroprevalence of HSV-1 and -2 is increasing mainly due to the synergistic relationship between HSV, STI and the HIV epidemic. There has been no proposed explanation for the AIDS epidemic occurring in Florida, with a concentration of cases in Miami. Prevalence of HSV-1 and -2 among STD clinics in Miami is not known. HSV seroprevalence rates will not explain why Miami is a “hot spot” for HIV/AIDS cases, but certainly may add a piece to the puzzle.

Objectives: To evaluate herpes simplex virus (HSV) 1 and 2 rates in a Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) clinic and to describe rates by gender and age.

Methods: A cross-sectional study of patients with HSV specific serology obtained during 2007 was performed.  

Results: A total of 364 individuals were screened for type-specific HSV-1 and -2 antibodies. Overall HSV-1 and -2 seropositivity was 72.8% and 46.15% respectively. HSV-1 infection rates were higher in females 97/124 (78.2%) compared to males 168/240 (70%); p = 0.095. HSV-2 seroprevalence was significantly higher in females 74/124 (59.7%) than in males 94/240 (39.2%); p <0.001. The over 29 year age group had higher HSV-1 (142/185, 76.7%) rates compared with those younger than 29 years (122/178, 68.55%); p = 0.079. However, the difference was again significant for HSV-2 when compared by age, 113/185 (61%) vs 54/178 (30.3%) respectively; p< 0.001. Chi-square tests were used to evaluate differences in positive serology rates by gender and age.

Conclusions: There is a very high rate of HSV-1 and -2 infections in this community. The female sex and those over 29 years of age were found to be at increased risk of HSV-2 infection.  

Implications for Programs, Policy, and/or Research: Efforts to decrease acquisition in the younger and female populations should be a focus of STD prevention programs.