Maternal and Neonatal Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Infection in Kilifi, Kenya
Author Information
Author(s): Nyiro Joyce U, Sanders Eduard J, Ngetsa Caroline, Wale Steve, Awuondo Ken, Bukusi Elizabeth, Price Matthew A, Amornkul Pauli N, James Nokes D
Primary Institution: Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kilifi, Kenya
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence and incidence of maternal and neonatal HSV-2 infection among semi-urban women in Kilifi, Kenya?
Conclusion
HSV-2 transmission is rapid following the onset of sexual activity, but the burden of neonatal HSV-2 is predicted to be low.
Supporting Evidence
- HSV-2 prevalence was 32% in the DSS recruits vs. 44% in the VCT recruits.
- Independent risk factors for HSV-2 infection included older age, recruitment from VCT, history of genital ulcers, and HIV infection.
- Education beyond primary was inversely associated with HSV-2 infection.
Takeaway
This study looked at how many women in Kilifi, Kenya have a virus called HSV-2, which can cause sores and affect babies. They found that many women have it, but it doesn't seem to be a big problem for newborns.
Methodology
The study screened plasma samples for HSV-2 infection from 826 women aged 15-34 years and used multivariate logistic regression to determine predictors of HSV-2 seropositivity.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to non-participation and lack of biological measurements for other STDs.
Limitations
The study was cross-sectional and only included women, limiting causal inferences; also, records of refusals were not kept.
Participant Demographics
Women aged 15-34 years from semi-urban areas in Kilifi, Kenya.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 3.3 - 4.4
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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