October 13

National Herpes Awareness Day

Protection is key - get informed and help spread awareness on National Herpes Awareness Day to keep yourself and loved ones safe!

Yearly Date

October 13

Observed in

United States

Introduction

National Herpes Awareness Day on October 13 is a great opportunity to celebrate the progress that has been made in herpes research and education. This day was first established in 1995 as a way to increase public awareness of the virus, which affects an estimated 1 out of 6 people ages 14-49 in the United States. With more knowledge about herpes comes greater acceptance, and it's our hope that National Herpes Awareness Day will help end stigma associated with this virus.

National Herpes Awareness Day Timeline

1925

Herpes Discovery

In 1925, the herpes simplex virus was isolated in a laboratory for the first time, paving the way for more concrete research and understanding of the virus.

1982

First Antiviral Medicine

The Food and Drug Administration approved the use of acyclovir, the first antiviral medicine used to treat herpes infections.

1995

Establishment of Awareness Day

National Herpes Awareness Day was first established in 1995 to increase public awareness and counteract the stigma related to the herpes virus.

2003

Herpevac Trial Launch

In 2003, a major clinical trial for a herpes vaccine, known as Herpevac, was launched with hopes of preventing herpes infections in women.

2012

Herpevac Trial Results

The Herpevac trial concluded in 2012, unfortunately it was ineffective at preventing genital herpes in women.

2021

Ongoing Research

As of 2021, researchers continue to investigate potential vaccines and treatments for the herpes virus.

How to Celebrate National Herpes Awareness Day

1 Educate yourself

Take the time to research herpes and learn about its symptoms, treatments, and prevention. Understanding the disease can help reduce the stigma associated with it.

2 Check in with your doctor

If you think you may have been exposed to herpes or are experiencing any type of symptom, schedule an appointment with your physician to get tested.

3 Share your story

If you’re comfortable doing so, consider sharing your experience with friends, family, or on social media. Your openness could help to reduce the stigma for others.

4 Support a cause

Look into organizations that specialize in providing support to those living with herpes or researching new treatments and prevention methods.

5 Spread awareness

Encourage friends and family members to practice safe sex and get tested regularly. Sharing this knowledge can help prevent further transmission of the virus.

Why National Herpes Awareness Day is Important

It helps to reduce stigma and normalize talking about genital herpes

One of the most important benefits of National Herpes Awareness Day is that it helps to reduce stigma around genital herpes. By talking openly and honestly about this virus, we can help to end the shame associated with it and create a more open dialogue about sexual health in general.

It raises awareness about the symptoms of genital herpes

Genital herpes often has no noticeable symptoms or very mild ones, so many people don't even realize they've been infected. By raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of this virus, we can ensure that people are aware of what to look out for and can seek treatment quickly if necessary.

It encourages safe sex practices

Herpes is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, so practicing safe sex (such as using condoms) is essential for preventing its spread. Herpes Awareness Day can help remind people to use protection during sexual activity and reinforce how important it is to practice safe sex.