Are researchers working on a vaccine/cure for herpes simplex viruses?

Question

Are researchers working on a vaccine/cure for herpes simplex viruses?

Answer 1

It doesn't look like there is a cure underway, but a vaccine or some other way to eliminate or lessen transmission would probably be a huge relief for those who have to disclose it to potential partners. I mean to say that if a single female with herpes could have intercourse with a vaccinated male or vice versa, there wouldn't be any hesitation in entering the relationship! I, personally don't have big problems with outbreaks and so forth. And as long as only my husband and I know I have it, the social stygma isn't so bad either. It's the poor people who are still dating and facing the horror I had 18 years ago. (That was sooooo difficult and scary, but the very next man I dated, I am happily married to. I never had someone reject me because of it.)

Here's a summary of the most recent research, and the link to the source. Hope it is helpful!

The (NIAID) does studies to develop better treatments for genital herpes.

1. Clinical trials are being conducted to decide the best way to use existing medicines.

2. The biology of HSV is also being studied, and they have identified certain proteins that the virus needs to survive. They are hoping that drugs aimed at disrupting these viral targets might lead to better medical treatments.

3. Methods to prevent spread of HSV are also being researched. Two important means of preventing HSV infection are vaccines and topical microbicides.

Several different vaccines are in various stages of development. (These include vaccines made from proteins on the HSV cell surface, peptides or chains of amino acids, and the DNA of the virus itself.)

A large clinical trial is currently being done with an hsv vaccine in women This is called the Herpevac Trial, and it is being conducted at more than 50 sites in the U.S. and Canada.

Gels, creams, or lotions, which are classified as topical microbicides are also in various stages of development and testing. Clinical trials are currently underway to evaluate the safety this type of topical application

Trials have already proven that daily suppressive therapy using valacyclovir significantly reduces risk of transmission of genital herpes to an uninfected partner. This is the first antiviral medication shown to work.

I've heard that the internet 'cures' are a farce and are just out to get your money. Good luck!

Answer 2

There already is one.