Serologic screening for Herpes Simplex Virus infection among undergraduates in a university in southwestern, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a public health challenge with Herpes simplex virus (HSV) being one of the most  prevalent STIs. Adolescents and young adults are at a greater risk of acquiring and transmitting the infection. Adequate and accurate  knowledge is crucial in developing effective sexual and reproductive health education programmes. The study aimed to assess the  knowledge and prevalence of HSV-1 and -2 among undergraduate students in a University in Southwestern Nigeria.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2018 to January 2019. Questionnaires were administered to participants  to assess their knowledge of HSV infection. Sera obtained were screened for the presence of HSV-1 and -2 immunoglobulin M (IgM) and  immunoglobulin G (IgG) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results: Correct responses to the knowledge of HSV were  obtained from 16.1% to 71.4% and 25.5% to 83.3% had incorrect responses. Self-reported prevalence of cold sores was 4.2%. IgM and IgG  antibodies to HSV-1 and -2 were detected in 1.1% and 96.8% of the participants respectively.

Conclusion: A low knowledge and high  seroprevalence of HSV infection was recorded. Thereby, emphasising the need for proper education to limit the prevalence and spread of  HSV.