Prevalence of Human Papillomavirus and Herpes Simplex Virus-2 Infections among Young Female Students in Oyo State

Introduction: Human papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infections among young female students have become a significant public health concern primarily due to their association with the development of certain cancers, such as cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HPV and HSV-2 infection and explore potential risk factors among this population.

Method of Analysis: A cross-sectional study was conducted among a sample of young female students aged 16 to 25 years residing at Queen Idia Hall, University of Ibadan. The study was approved by the University of Ibadan/University College Hospital Institutional Review Committee (UI/UCH IRC). Data were collected through structured interviews. Vaginal swab sample was collected from 232 study participants. The study was carried out at the department of Virology, UCH, Ibadan. HPV and HSV-2 DNA were detected using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results: HPV DNA was not detected while a low prevalence (6%) of HSV-2 infection was observed among the young female students. Several risk factors were associated with the acquisition of HPV and HSV-2 infections. These included early sexual debut, multiple sexual partners and unprotected sexual intercourse.

Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate absence of HPV infection among the young female students. These results underscore the importance of implementing preventive measures, specifically HPV vaccination, among this particular age group. Given the limited exposure to the virus observed in this study, extending the age range for HPV vaccination is warranted to provide protection against future HPV infection. Efforts should also be directed towards increasing access to screening and early detection of HPV and HSV-2 infections among this population. There is need for comprehensive sexual health education programs targeting young female students, promoting safe sexual practices, and increasing awareness about HPV vaccination.