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Health Systems

Over 1 in 5 Adults Worldwide Infected with Genital Herpes: WHO

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According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 846 million people aged 15 to 49, or more than one in five individuals in this age group, are living with genital herpes infections globally. These findings, published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections, highlight the widespread nature of the infection and underscore the urgent need for improved prevention, treatment, and vaccine development. Each year, an estimated 42 million people contract a new genital herpes infection, equating to one new case every second. While many infections are asymptomatic, over 200 million individuals in 2020 experienced painful genital sores and blisters, often requiring repeated medical visits. Dr. Meg Doherty, WHO’s Director of Global HIV, Hepatitis, and STI Programmes, emphasized the strain on global health systems: “Genital herpes causes pain and distress for millions, and better prevention and treatment options are critical to controlling its spread and reducing its health impacts, including its link to an increased risk of HIV transmission.” The study estimates 520 million people have genital HSV-2, responsible for 90% of symptomatic cases and associated with a three-fold higher HIV risk. An additional 376 million are infected with genital HSV-1, which is increasingly transmitted during adulthood due to declining childhood oral infections. Herpes infections carry significant social and economic burdens. Stigma often silences discussions about the infection, and healthcare costs and productivity losses are estimated at $35 billion annually. WHO advocates consistent condom use and avoiding sexual contact during active outbreaks to reduce transmission. It also recommends HIV testing for individuals with genital herpes and pre-exposure prophylaxis when needed. Research into vaccines and new treatments remains a priority, as these advancements could significantly improve global health outcomes and reduce the stigma surrounding herpes infections. Source: World Health Organization Photo Credit: World Health Organization

G20 Health Ministers Unite for Resilient and Equitable Access to Affordable Medicines in Developing Nations

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During the G20 Health Ministers meeting, a consensus emerged to establish stronger, more inclusive health systems that provide fair access to safe, quality, and affordable vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and medical countermeasures, particularly in low and middle-income countries and small island developing states. The outcome document, consisting of 25 paragraphs, received unanimous approval from all G20 delegations, except for paragraph 22, which focused on the geopolitical situation in Ukraine. According to the released outcome document after the meeting in Gandhinagar on August 19, there was agreement on creating a research and development network for vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics. Additionally, plans were made to establish a platform for readily accessible open-source and interoperable digital solutions. Health ministers also expressed optimism about the ongoing negotiations within the intergovernmental negotiating body (INB) for a legally binding WHO convention or international instrument related to pandemic prevention and preparedness, with a target of achieving this by May 2024. They recognized the need to fortify health systems against the impacts of climate change and pledged to prioritize the development of climate-resilient health systems. This includes creating sustainable and low-carbon/low greenhouse gas (GHG) emission healthcare systems and supply chains that offer high-quality care and mobilizing resources for resilient, low-carbon health systems. The G20 member countries committed to addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) comprehensively through a One Health approach. This entails strengthening governance, coordination, research and development, infection prevention and control, and improving awareness of AMR. Responsible use of antimicrobials across humans, animals, and plant sectors, along with preserving existing therapeutics through antimicrobial stewardship, was also emphasized. Moreover, the G20 recognized the potential of evidence-based traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) in public health delivery, provided that these practices are scientifically validated for safety and effectiveness. They also acknowledged the significance of digital health and the modernization of health data systems in improving healthcare accessibility and equity. The ministers recommended closer coordination among existing digital health initiatives to create a seamless digital health ecosystem, endorsing the WHO’s Global Initiative on Digital Health to implement the WHO’s Global Digital Health Strategy 2020-2025. This initiative, managed by the WHO, aims to reduce fragmentation, promote interoperable open-source digital solutions, and support countries in implementing high-quality digital health systems with a people-centric focus.