The Facts
Genital herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs; these are also known by the older term sexually transmitted diseases or STDs) in North America and Europe, and the percentage of the population with this condition is growing around the world.
It is a viral infection of the genitals that can also affect other parts of the body. In the US, genital herpes affects approximately 1 out of every 6 people. About 8 out of 10 infected people aren't even aware of their condition.