Abstract
PurposeHerpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) causes genital herpes, one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the U.S. HSV-1, commonly associated with cold sores, is increasing as a cause of genital herpes. Abstinence-only sexual health classes, commonly taught in Virginia, generate young adults who are under-educated in sexual health, increasing STI risks. College students in southwest Virginia were surveyed to assess comprehensiveness of high school health education regarding HSV-1 and HSV-2 and to identify students’ preferred methods for STI education.MethodsTo obtain data on knowledge of HSV, comprehensiveness of sexual health education in high school, and preferred learning methods, 237 college students participated in an online questionnaire and 28 students were interviewed using structured interviews.ResultsQuestionnaire and interview data indicated that Family Life Education classes need to include more comprehensive information on prevention, viral transmission, and differences between HSV-1 and HSV-2. The majority of total respondents (both the questionnaire and interview) (65%) reported non-comprehensive high school sexual health education. The majority of interview (79%) and questionnaire (55%) respondents wished they had learned more about herpes and other STIs in high school. Education preferences of both interviewed and surveyed respondents included interactive internet programs or games, more realistic lectures, and learning about STIs later in high school when students reported greater sexual activity.ConclusionOur results indicate that more comprehensive sexual health education is needed and wanted by students in southwest Virginia. More relevant educational programs should be implemented for VA high school students utilizing technology and interactive methods to improve student engagement in sexual health education.Implications and contributionThese studies provide information on knowledge of herpes simplex viruses among college students, comprehensiveness of sexual health education received in high schools, and preferred methods to learn about HSV and other STIs. These studies inform the facilitation of improved health education practices and programs for high school and college students.
Highlights
Transmitted infections (STIs) are a serious and growing problem in the United States, among adolescents and young adults
Questionnaire and interview data indicated that Family Life Education classes need to include more comprehensive information on prevention, viral transmission, and differences between herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2)
Our results indicate that more comprehensive sexual health education is needed and wanted by students in southwest Virginia
Summary
Transmitted infections (STIs) are a serious and growing problem in the United States, among adolescents and young adults. Half of all newly acquired STIs are among young people aged 15–24, and approximately one in four sexually active teens contracts an STI every year [1]. Genital herpes is a non-reportable infection, with no widely adopted screening recommendations across geographical regions in the U.S Prevalence data for HSV-1 and HSV-2 are unavailable for specific geographical regions in the U.S, in rural areas, or for specific groups of people such as college students. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates 22% of adults in the U.S are currently seropositive and approximately 776,000 new HSV-2 infections occur each year, 45% of which are in people ages 15–24[2] [3]. This substantial increase in prevalence over a lifetime indicates that targeting adolescents and young adults for prevention efforts is the most effective way to lower the incidence of HSV-1 and HSV-2 in the U.S
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