The outbreak of genital herpes has made herpes a well-known sexually transmitted infection, however, this is usually where the “well-known” part ends. People usually treat herpes as a taboo topic, which dos not prove to be very beneficial for the society, as instead of shunning people with herpes, people should be aware of it.

Online polls were taken to see people’s view of herpes and some other sexually transmitted diseases. About five hundred people from the United States of America who claimed to have herpes and fourteen hundred who claimed they did not, had taken an online poll of this kind. The results show that herpes was on the second of the social stigma list, and HIV took first place.

There were also questions of if people thought topics such as HIV, obesity, mental illness were taboo topics and should be avoided talking about. Many people opted for the choice that none of the topics were taboo. However, herpes was still top when it came to the list of taboos.

Many people even claimed that they would avoid having a relationship with someone who has genital herpes, and even go as far as to break up with someone if they found out that their partner does have herpes.

People infected by herpes have a tough time telling their partner about the infection. Most fear their partners might leave them, yet they still would choose to explain their situation. 36% of the people carrying the genital herpes virus claimed they tell their partners regarding the matter long before they participate in any sexual activity. Sadly, over half the people with herpes are constantly worried when it comes to spreading herpes to their partner.

The poll also showed that people with herpes are not comfortable talking about the matter with their partners. They would rather make an excuse to avoid sexual activity rather than explain if they had a herpes outbreak.