Innovation: Nil

Sector/Industry Application: Health

Description: Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV‐1 and HSV‐2). HSV‐2 causes the large majority of genital herpes cases, although HSV‐1 has been found to be responsible for an increasing number of cases (Roberts 2003). The herpes simplex viruses causes a wide spectrum of disease, from asymptomatic infections to painful, genital ulcers with systemic symptoms. Several studies have shown that ulcers from genital herpes can facilitate transmission and acquisition of HIV (Mbopi‐Keou 2000, Todd 2006). A meta‐analysis found that infection with HSV‐2 can double the risk of HIV transmission during sexual activity (Wald 2002). Two meta‐analyses have also shown that HSV‐2 seropositivity itself can increase the risk of HIV transmission (Freeman 2006, Corey 2004). HSV‐2 and HIV co‐infection has been further found to be associated with

Problem: Prevention of HIV transmission