Rising concern of herpes and what can be done to prevent it

Herpes, a sexually transmitted disease caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), affects an estimated 16.2 percent of Americans between the ages of 14 and 49, according to the Centers For Disease and Control Prevention (CDC). Transmission occurs during sexual contact and may result in sores and flu-like symptoms, although most infections are mild. Those with suppressed immune systems have the most cause for concern, as do pregnant woman who risk infecting their babies at birth.

CNN Health reports that sexually transmitted diseases infect 19 million more Americans each year. A study performed by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey shows that the healthcare system spends an annual $16 billion on STD treatment.

"This study serves as a stark reminder that herpes remains a common and serious health threat in the U.S.," says Dr Kevin Fenton, director of the CDC's National Center for STD Prevention, as quoted by CNN Health.

The CDC advises that the surest way to prevent transmission is to abstain from sexual contact, have a monogamous relationship or use latex condoms to protect against the risk of genital herpes. It is important that all sexual partners be tested for an infection, since asymptomatic people can still transmit the disease.