References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is one of the most common viral infections worldwide, and the UK is no exception. Most people carry HSV-1, often acquired in childhood, and a significant minority carry HSV-2. The numbers can feel surprising because herpes is rarely discussed openly — yet it’s genuinely one of the most widespread infections in the population.
Here’s what the UK data shows.
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HSV-1 vs HSV-2
| Type | Typical Location | How It Spreads |
|---|---|---|
| HSV-1 | Mostly oral (cold sores), increasingly genital | Kissing, sharing utensils, oral sex |
| HSV-2 | Mostly genital | Vaginal, anal and (less commonly) oral sex |
Either type can infect either location. Genital HSV-1 is increasingly common, particularly from oral sex.
How Common Is It?
Estimates from UK and international studies suggest:
- Around two-thirds of the UK adult population carry HSV-1
- A significant minority also carry HSV-2
- Most people with HSV have no or very mild symptoms
- Many people don’t realise they have herpes
- Genital herpes is one of the most commonly diagnosed STIs in sexual health clinics
Why So Many People Don’t Know
- First outbreaks can be mild or mistaken for irritation, thrush or UTI
- Many people never have a noticeable outbreak at all
- The virus can shed and be transmitted without symptoms
- Routine STI testing doesn’t include HSV antibody tests in the UK
- Stigma keeps people from talking about it
Who Gets Herpes?
Anyone can catch herpes. Risk factors for genital herpes include:
- New or multiple sexual partners
- Female (women are biologically more susceptible)
- Young adults (peak age for new diagnosis)
- Immune suppression (including HIV)
Impact on Daily Life
Despite its prevalence, genital herpes has significant impact for some people:
- Emotional distress at diagnosis
- Recurring outbreaks in a minority (most have few or none)
- Concerns about disclosure to partners
- Physical discomfort during outbreaks
Treatment and Management
There is no cure, but treatment is effective:
- Antiviral drugs (aciclovir, valaciclovir) shorten outbreaks
- Daily suppressive therapy reduces recurrence and transmission risk
- Most people have fewer outbreaks over time
- Partners can reduce transmission risk with condoms, suppressive therapy and avoiding sex during outbreaks
The Stigma Is Bigger Than the Problem
Given how common herpes is, the stigma attached to it is disproportionate. Most people carrying HSV live normal lives with little impact. More open conversation would help everyone.
Read more: What is herpes? | Home herpes tests | STIs and relationships
Frequently Asked Questions
How common is genital herpes in the UK?
Very common — hundreds of thousands of new diagnoses are made over time. Many cases are undiagnosed.
Can I be tested for herpes without having symptoms?
Blood antibody tests exist but are not routinely offered in the UK because they can cause distress without changing management. Testing is usually done when symptoms are present.
Does everyone with HSV get outbreaks?
No. Most people have no or few outbreaks. The frequency and severity vary widely between individuals.
Related reading
- Can You Get Herpes From a Toilet Seat?
- Can You Get Herpes From Kissing?
- Comprehensive Test: Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea and Herpes
- Cold Sores vs Syphilis Sores: How to Tell the Difference
- Genital Warts vs Herpes: What's the Difference?
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
