The harmful effects of genital herpes simplex infection

Based on Section 1 of the Guidelines for Diagnosis and Treatment of Herpes Simplex (issued together with Decision 5183/QD-BYT in 2021), the adverse effects of genital Herpes Simplex are as follows:

- Genital Herpes Simplex can cause extra-genital complications such as radiculitis, aseptic meningitis, urinary retention, and rectal mucositis (especially in men who have sex with men).

- Neonates infected with HSV, although rare, still have a rate of severe disability and mortality.

- Individuals infected with HSV-2 have a threefold increased risk of contracting HIV. Co-infection with HIV and HSV-2 can increase the risk of transmitting HIV to others. HSV-2 infection in HIV-positive individuals can lead to serious complications such as infections of the eyes, brain, and lungs.

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