Incidence of herpes simplex virus type 2 infections in Africa: a systematic review

Open Forum Infectious Diseases
Sharanya RajagopalAnna Wald

Abstract

The burden of HSV type 2 varies substantially by region, with the highest incidence and prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa. We undertook a systematic review to identify studies reporting prospective data on incidence rates in men and women in Africa. Of 18 eligible studies, 7 were conducted in high-risk populations. Among women, incidence rates appeared to be higher in those with high-risk sexual behavior, with rates ranging from 3 to 23 per 100 person-years. In contrast, incidence rates in men appeared to be lower, ranging from 1 to 12 per 100 person-years. Risk factors for HSV-2 in women included prevalent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, younger age at sexual initiation, and sexual activity. Among men, condom use and circumcision had a protective effect, whereas prevalent HIV increased the risk of HSV-2 acquisition. This review draws attention to the high HSV-2 acquisition rates reported in Africa, thereby identifying an efficient setting for preventative HSV-2 vaccine trials.

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Citations

Jan 5, 2019·Journal of Investigative and Clinical Dentistry·Paa-Kwesi BlanksonRichard H Asmah
Feb 13, 2019·The Journal of Infectious Diseases·Jeanne M MarrazzoUNKNOWN VOICE Study Team
Dec 11, 2019·Wiener klinische Wochenschrift·Verena SchremserAlexandra Geusau
Nov 13, 2015·Clinical Microbiology Reviews·Christine Johnston, Lawrence Corey
Jul 24, 2021·Expert Review of Vaccines·Vindya Nilakshi WijesingheSunil Kumar Lal

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Methods Mentioned

BETA
circumcision

Software Mentioned

Scopus
EMBASE Ovid

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