Why in news?
An outbreak of the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) at the Jalpaiguri Central Correctional Home in West Bengal infected 92 inmates between August 2025 and March 2026. Seven inmates died. Overcrowding—more than 1,200 inmates in a facility designed for 700—likely contributed to the rapid spread, drawing attention to health conditions in Indian prisons.
Background
HSV is a highly contagious virus that causes recurrent blisters and ulcers, typically around the mouth (HSV‑1) or the genitals (HSV‑2). Once infected, a person carries the virus for life; it lies dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate under stress or illness. There is no cure, but antiviral medicines can reduce symptoms and lower the risk of transmission.
Understanding HSV
- Types: HSV‑1 is mainly transmitted through oral contact and is the main cause of cold sores, though it can also cause genital infections. HSV‑2 spreads primarily through sexual contact and is the main cause of genital herpes.
- Prevalence: The World Health Organization estimates that about 3.8 billion people under 50 carry HSV‑1 and about 520 million people aged 15 – 49 carry HSV‑2 worldwide. Most infections are asymptomatic or mild.
- Symptoms: Painful blisters or ulcers may recur over time. Initial infections can cause fever, swollen lymph nodes and body aches. In rare cases, untreated infection can lead to encephalitis or meningitis.
- Treatment: Antiviral drugs such as acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir can shorten outbreaks and, when taken daily, reduce recurrences and transmission risk. There is no vaccine yet.
Lessons from the outbreak
- Prison conditions: Overcrowding and poor hygiene in correctional facilities facilitate the spread of infections. The outbreak underscores the need for adequate ventilation, sanitation and decongestion.
- Public health response: Authorities isolated infected inmates, improved hygiene and sought to reduce congestion. Early diagnosis and antiviral treatment are critical to prevent severe complications.
- Stigma and education: Herpes infections are often stigmatized despite being common. Public education can reduce stigma, encourage testing and promote preventive measures such as avoiding contact during active outbreaks and practising safe sex.
Source: The Hindu