What Percentages of Americans Have Herpes?

Everyone is at risk of HSV type 1. Studies suggest that by adolescence around 60% of the population has contracted HSV type 1, and almost 85% by the time people are in their 60’s. Accordingthe Center for Disease Control close 17% of the adult population has contracted HSV type 2 with millions of new cases being reported every year. It is important to remember that these statistics are hard to calculate since a large portion of the infected population do not develop symptoms or develop mild symptoms that are often mistaken for other conditions. It would be reasonable to assume that the percentages of infection are higher than reported.

Note: This article is not medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your specific condition.