Intro to How Common Is Herpes in India
How Common Is Herpes in India? Far more people in India have herpes, a viral infection, than is commonly known. Because of the stigma, many people do not test and ignore weak symptoms, most herpes cases go unnoticed. Yet, knowing how common STIs are can encourage people to act more wisely when it comes to preventing, diagnosing, and treating them.
In this blog, we will focus on how common is herpes in India, both herpes simplex 1 and 2, why many people don’t realize they have it, and what they can do to receive care.
Discovering the Different Types of Herpes
Be sure you know the two types of herpes before you begin learning statistics.
- HSV-1 is most linked to oral herpes, it can migrate to your genitals after contact between the mouth and sex organs.
- It usually happens by sex and brings on genital herpes, making it HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2).
How Common Is HSV-1 in India?
In India, HSV-1 is a very widespread infection.
- About 70–80% of adults show evidence of having HSV-1 antibodies.
- Most of the time, people pick up the bacteria early on by kissing, for instance, or by sharing bathing supplies.
- Though most HSV-1 infections occur on the lips and mouth, they can also cause genital herpes, mostly from oral intercourse.
- Reasonably speaking, most people infected with HSV-1 don’t realize they’re infected because their symptoms are usually not distinguishable.
How Common Is HSV-2 in India?
It is the HSV-2 virus, which many people have, that is most often responsible for genital herpes.
- Out of India’s sexually active population, between 10% and 15% of people could have HSV-2.
- For some people, the condition strikes more often.
- Being female, their biological build allows certain people who have sexual relations with multiple other persons.
- Group members could get HIV or other STIs.
- More people in cities are likely to report COVID, thanks to easier access to testing and news.
- Most cases go unreported either due to a lack of symptoms or a reluctance.
Why It’s Difficult to Detect Herpes Active Cases in India

Many factors lead to both inaccurate diagnosis of herpes and underreporting.
- Fearing how society will react, some people with STIs do not get help.
- Insufficient STI screening is common in public healthcare centers.
- A lot of people notice very few symptoms or none at all.
- Getting skin issues that are not even acne, such as boils or rashes.
Signs You May Notice with Herpes
The main symptoms include:
- In the vaginal area, blisters or sores; in the anus or mouth.
- The area surrounding a sore may itch or feel hot even before a sore forms.
- Flu-like signs (i.e, fever and swollen glands) during the first infection.
Meanwhile, even though these diseases are not usually serious, they are often found in large groups.
Should you notice any of these, you ought to be tested for STIs right away.
Steps for Getting a Herpes Test in India
Doctors use the following to identify both herpes simplex viruses:
- Blood tests that look for antibodies
- A swab test from the mouth during an oral sore can confirm the Herpes Simplex Virus infection
Most pathology labs, sexual health clinics, and hospitals provide testing.
At Happy Waves, among others, you can receive confidential and private STD testing in a stigma-free clinic.
Effective Treatment of Herpes Simplex Virus in India
How Common Is Herpes in India: Though there is no long-term cure for herpes, the following helps control it:
1. Antiviral Medications
The medicines known as Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, and Famciclovir work for this condition.
- Lower the risk and period of heat outbreaks.
- Decreased risk of the disease coming back
- Lower the danger of spreading the virus
Treatment Types:
- Occurs when outbreaks happen
- Suppressive: Taking medication regularly to keep the infections from coming back often
2. Support & Management of Pain
- Painkillers that you can get over the counter, such as Ibuprofen and Paracetamol
- Warm compresses
- Remedies to take care of irritated skin
3. Ayurvedic Approaches
India’s Ayurveda provides approaches to address overall health:
- Neem, Giloy, Ashwagandha, and Turmeric herbs can improve your immune system.
- These therapies take out toxins and help balance the body’s functions.
- These herbal remedies can keep illness from returning and speed up recovery.
At Happy Waves Clinic, patients can receive confidential advice from expert Ayurvedic doctors who focus on treating chronic infections such as HSV.
Things You Can Do to Avoid Contracting HSV in India
- Put on condoms and dental dams every time you are having sex.
- Don’t have intimate contact when you can see pimples forming.
- Check your STIs with your partner before you have unprotected intercourse.
- Don’t exchange personal products (lip balm, towels)
To learn about Herpes Virus Treatment in India, click here.
FAQs: How Common is Herpes in India?
1. Can herpes be fatal for those who have it?
Herpes is considered low risk to a person’s life. This disease can cause discomfort and emotional stress, but treatment keeps it under control.
2. Can someone be healed from herpes?
Even though there isn’t an absolute cure, herbal and prescription drugs can be used to decrease symptoms and stop new episodes from happening.
3. Can you transmit herpes before you notice any symptoms?
A person can get herpes without seeing any sores on the other person. Sometimes, the reproductive phase happens without showing any symptoms.
4. Is using Ayurvedic herbs safe for herpes?
Indeed, practicing Ayurveda with the help of experts can be safe and may protect you from frequent infections and diseases.
5. Is it possible to form a normal relationship if I’ve been diagnosed with herpes?
Absolutely. If people with herpes have open talks, reliable care, and safety, they can enjoy healthy relationships and satisfying sex lives.
Make Your First Move Toward Recovery: How Common Is Herpes in India?
If you think you might have herpes or need confidential care, speak to a doctor as soon as you can. Identifying the disease early and giving proper treatment can be very important.
You can trust Happy Waves to give you professional Ayurvedic care connected to your health concerns.
Please call +91-90 8069 5359 or email info@happywaves.in to set up your consultation.