Herpes simplex virus type ۲: Seroprevalence in pregnant women

Introduction: Herpes Simplex Virus type ۲ (HSV-۲)  is a highly prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI) The prevalence of HSV-۲ infection is increasing in many populations and geographic areas . Herpes simplex virus type ۲ (HSV-۲) is the cause of most genital herpes and is almost always sexually transmitted. Most HSV-۲ infections are consequently expected to occur after the onset of sexual activity. Genital herpes is a cause of morbidity and increases the risk of HIV acquisition, due to disruption of mucosal membranes. Data on prevalence of herpes simplex virus type ۲ (HSV-۲) infections are limited in Asia Methods: Our study focuses on seroepidemiology of HSV-۲ infection among pregnant women in Urmia-West Azerbaijan to estimate the regional Seroprevalence of anti HSV-۲ antibody in Urmia and to investigate the possible correlation of seropositivity with abortion history. Results:  This study was conducted on ۸۶ randomly selected pregnant women. ELISA was performed to detect anti HSV-۲ IgG antibody. Detailed history and questionnaire filled. Of the ۸۶ cases screened for anti HSV-۲ IgG antibodies, ۵ (۵.۸۱%) tested positive.  Conclusions: These results may have public health importance for our country as the high rate of HSV-۲ infection and be useful for designing strategies for focusing prevention efforts for HSV-۲ infection