Which of the following statements about genital herpes is TRUE?
A After infection, the virus lies dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate at any time.
B The virus can be transmitted to a sex partner even if no lesions are present.
C Genital herpes is a major risk factor in the transmission of HIV worldwide.
D All of these statements are true.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is D) All of these statements are true.
Explanation:
- Statement A: “After infection, the virus lies dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate at any time.”
- This is true. After the initial infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV), the virus travels along nerve pathways to ganglia, where it can remain dormant for extended periods. During dormancy, the virus is not actively replicating. However, various triggers like stress, illness, or immunosuppression can cause the virus to reactivate, leading to outbreaks of genital herpes. Reactivation can occur at any time, and in some people, it may happen without any noticeable symptoms.
- Statement B: “The virus can be transmitted to a sex partner even if no lesions are present.”
- This is also true. Herpes simplex virus can be transmitted even when visible lesions or sores are not present, a phenomenon known as asymptomatic viral shedding. During this time, the virus is still present on the skin and mucous membranes and can be passed to a partner during sexual contact. This is one reason why genital herpes is easily spread, and why individuals who are infected may transmit the virus without realizing it.
- Statement C: “Genital herpes is a major risk factor in the transmission of HIV worldwide.”
- This is correct. Genital herpes is a significant risk factor for the transmission and acquisition of HIV. The sores and ulcers caused by genital herpes can create an opening in the skin or mucous membranes, making it easier for HIV to enter the body. Additionally, individuals with genital herpes can have an increased viral load of HIV during co-infection, which enhances the likelihood of transmission to others. The inflammation caused by herpes can also increase susceptibility to HIV infection.
Thus, all of the above statements are true, making option D the correct answer.