Overview
Herpes is a prevalent global health issue. Around 5% of the world's population, or an estimated 187 million people suffer from at least one episode of herpes-related diseases. The WHO estimates that around 67% of the global population under the age of 50 has HSV-1, equating to approximately 3.7 billion people. The global prevalence is estimated at around 13% among individuals aged 15-49 years old. HSV-2 infection is more common in women than in men.
In India, HSV-1 prevalence is estimated to be around 50% in the entire population. Whereas the prevalence of HSV-2 ranges from 7.9% to 14.6% in the general population and 43% to 83% among sexually transmitted cases.
Best hospitals for Herpes Virus Treatment in India
1. Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai
Address: 15, Pedder Rd, IT Colony, Tardeo, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400026
Established: 1970
Beds: 364
Doctors: Over 125 doctors
Specialities:
- Comprehensive care is provided for Herpes treatment. Tzanck testing is used to diagnose viral diseases, such as herpes simplex and herpes zoster.
- Apart from that, treatment is provided for Cardiology, Oncology, Neurosurgery, Nuclear Medicine, Gynaecology, Ophthalmology, Nephrology
2. S.L. Raheja Hospital, Mumbai
Address: Raheja Rugnalaya Marg, Mahim (W), Mumbai, Maharashtra - 400016, India
Established: 1981
Beds: 170
Doctors: 125
Specialities:
- For herpes treatment, S.L. Raheja Hospital provides specialised dermatological care, with a dedicated team of healthcare professionals and modern facilities to ensure effective treatment and patient comfort.
- They have departments for Dermatology & Cosmetology, Endocrinology & Diabetology, Oncology, Cardiology, Neurology & Neurosurgery and more.
3. Max Hospital, Delhi
Address: Max Super Speciality Hospital, No. 1, 2, Press Enclave Road, Mandir Marg, Saket Institutional Area, Saket, New Delhi, Delhi, 110017, India
Established: 2006
Beds: 500+
Doctors: 393
Specialities:
- In terms of herpes treatment, Max Hospital, Saket, offers specialised dermatological care. The hospital's dermatology department is equipped with advanced medical technologies and staffed by skilled healthcare professionals. They provide comprehensive treatment plans for herpes and other skin conditions.
- They are also renowned for treatment in Cardiology, Oncology, Neurosciences, Urology, Nephrology, and all major organ transplants.
4. All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi
Address: Ansari Nagar, New Delhi - 110029
Established: 1956
Beds: 3000+
Specialities:
- Known for a wide range of medical specialities, including an acclaimed dermatology department.
- For herpes treatment, AIIMS provides comprehensive dermatological care. The hospital is equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed by specialists experienced in treating various skin conditions, including herpes.
5. Fortis Hospital, Bangalore
Address: 154/9, Bannerghatta Rd, opposite IIM-B, Sahyadri Layout, Panduranga Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560076
Established: 2006
Beds: 284
Specialities:
- Offers comprehensive healthcare services. It hosts some of the city’s best doctors and well-trained paramedical and support staff. It offers super-speciality tertiary care services for about 40 specialities
- It is well known in the dermatology department, which is critical for the management of herpes.
6. Apollo Hospital, Chennai
Address: 21, Greams Lane, Off. Greams Road, Chennai - 600006, Tamil Nadu, India.
Established: 1983.
Beds: 560
Doctors: 237
Specialities: The hospital offers a comprehensive range of medical specialities. It is well-known for its advanced healthcare in areas like Cardiology, Neurology, Oncology, Orthopedics, and more.
Herpes treatment: Specialised dermatological care focusing on managing herpes infections. Access to experienced dermatologists.
7. SRM Institutes for Medical Science (SIMS Hospital)
Address: No.1, Jawaharlal Nehru Salai (100 Feet Road), Vadapalani, Chennai - 600026, Tamil Nadu, India.
Established: 1987
Beds: 345
Specialities:
- SIMS Hospital is known for its multidisciplinary approach and offers a wide range of specialities, including Cardiology, Neurology, Nephrology, Orthopedics, and more.
- Dedicated dermatology and venereology services focusing on the diagnosis and management of herpes infections. Experienced medical professionals who are adept in treating various infectious diseases, including herpes.
8. Continental Hospital, Hyderabad
Address: Plot No 3, Road No. 2, Financial District, Gachibowli, Nanakaramguda, Telangana 500032
Established: 2013
Beds: 750+
Doctors: 250+
Specialities:
- Focused on Cardiology, Oncology, Neurology, Women’s health
- The dermatology department specialises in treating herpes and shingles infections.
Best Doctors for Herpes Treatment in India
1. Dr Ram Malkani, Mumbai
Specialisation: Dermatologist
Experience:35 years
Services: Eczema, Psoriasis, fungal infections, herpes
Specialises: In Tzanck testing, to diagnose viral diseases, such as herpes simplex and herpes zoster.
Associated with: Jaslok Hospital
2. Dr G Saple, Mumbai
Specialisation: Dermatologist
Experience:38 years
Services: Skin cancer, Psoriasis, fungal infections, herpes
Specialises: Cold sores treatment caused by herpes infection.
Associated with: S L Raheja Hospital
3. Dr. Ravi Joshi, Delhi
Specialisation: Dermatologist
Experience:34 years
Services: Chronic skin diseases
Associated with: Apollo Hospital
4. Dr Manu Saksena
Specialisation: Dermatology and Venerology
Experience: 21 years
Services: Psoriasis, fungal infections, herpes
Associated with: Apollo Spectra
5. Dr. Varsha Patil, Banagalore
Specialisation: Dermatology and Venerology
Experience: 14 years
Services: Clinical dermatology, herpes, phototherapy
Associated with: Neotis skincare clinic
6. Dr. Pravin Bharadwaj, Bangalore
Specialisation: Dermatology
Experience: 13 years
Services: Paediatric dermatology, herpes
Associated with: Manipal Hospital
7. Dr. Snehlatha, Chennai
Specialisation: Dermatologist, Venereologist
Experience: 19 years
Services: Chronic skin allergies
Associated with: Nila Skincare
8. Dr. Cordelia Babitha, Chennai
Specialisation: Dermatologist, Venereologist,
Experience: 19 years
Services: Leprosy, skin allergies
Associated with: Avira skin and hair clinic
9. Dr. B Vijaya Sree, Hyderabad
Specialisation: Venerologist
Experience: 13 years
Services: Skin allergies
Associated with: Medicover Hospital
10. Dr. G.L. Sitara
Specialisation: Dermatologist, Venereologist,
Experience: 14 years
Services: Skin allergies
Associated with: Dr. Sitara Advanced Skin And Hair Clinic
Cost of Herpes Treatment in India
The cost of herpes treatment in India varies depending on the specific treatment, the healthcare facility and the geographical location.
| Medicine | Herpes treatment cost |
| Acyclovir | Branded antiviral INR 44,000, for a 30 day tablet |
| Generic versions average about INR 9,600 for a 30 day tablet | |
| Valacyclovir | Brand-name version costing up to INR 67,000 |
| Generic versions average about INR 2000 for a 30 day tablet |
Other overhead costs also need to be added
- Doctor's consultation: ₹200 to ₹1,000 per visit
- Lab tests: ₹500 to ₹2,000 per test (depending on the test)
Global cost of herpes treatment:
Country | Herpes Treatment Cost |
| US | $50-$100 without insurance |
| UK | $9.35 per dose (for residents, covered by NHS) |
| India | As low as $1-$5 per dose |
| Dubai | USD 13-136 per dose |
Factors affecting the cost of herpes virus treatment in India
The cost of herpes treatment can vary greatly depending on several factors, including:
- Location: Healthcare costs vary significantly between countries and even within different regions of the same country.
- Type of herpes: There are two main types of herpes: herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). Treatment costs for HSV and VZV can differ.
- Severity of the infection: The severity of the herpes infection will also impact the cost of treatment. Mild cases may only require topical medications, while more severe cases may require hospitalisation and intravenous medication.
- Treatment regimen: Different antiviral medications are available for treating herpes, and their costs can vary significantly. Generic medications are typically cheaper than brand-name medications.
- Healthcare system: The type of healthcare system in a country can also affect the cost of treatment. Some countries have universal healthcare, where the government covers the cost of treatment, while others have private healthcare systems where individuals are responsible for the cost of care.
- Also, some countries offer free or subsidised treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like herpes.
Studies have shown that pregnant women, children, and immunocompromised patients respond well to acyclovir. Also, sexually active youths have a higher risk, which includes 7-14% of adolescents. In such cases, awareness is needed to combat herpes.
Understanding the types of herpes infections
Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types of herpes viruses,
- HSV-1
- HSV-2
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1):
- Oral Herpes (Herpes Labialis): Commonly known as cold sores or fever blisters, oral herpes is typically caused by HSV-1. It manifests as sores or blisters on or around the lips, mouth, and occasionally the face. HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes through oral-genital contact.
- Herpetic Gingivostomatitis: This is a severe form of oral herpes that can affect the gums, mouth, and throat. It generally affects young children.
- Herpes Whitlow: This occurs when HSV-1 infects the fingers or thumbs, resulting in painful sores.
- Ocular Herpes: HSV-1 can cause infections in the eye, leading to inflammation, redness, and sometimes vision problems.
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2):
- Genital Herpes: HSV-2 is the main cause of genital herpes. It is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that leads to painful sores in the genital and anal areas. However, it's important to note that HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes.
- Herpes Gladiatorum (HSV-1): This is a type of herpes that primarily affects athletes engaged in contact sports like wrestling. It is characterized by skin lesions and is highly contagious.
- Neonatal Herpes: It is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can affect newborns. It can be caused by both HSV-1 and HSV-2 and is usually transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
Herpes is a lifelong infection, and while antiviral medications can help manage symptoms, there is no cure. Prevention measures, such as practicing safe sex and avoiding contact with active lesions, can reduce the risk of transmission.
FAQs
Does health insurance in India cover herpes treatment?
Health insurance coverage for herpes treatment can vary depending on the insurance plan. Some plans may cover the cost of consultations, medications, and diagnostic tests. It's important to review the terms and conditions of your health insurance policy or check with the insurance provider for specific details.
Are there government hospitals in India that provide herpes treatment?
Yes, government hospitals in India often provide healthcare services, including treatment for infectious diseases like herpes. These hospitals may offer more affordable options for consultation and medications, and some may provide services free of charge.
Can I get herpes treatment at private hospitals in India?
Yes, private hospitals and healthcare facilities in India provide herpes treatment. Costs at private hospitals may be higher than at government facilities, but they may offer more amenities and a shorter waiting time for appointments.
Are there any financial assistance programs for herpes treatment in India?
Some government health programs and charitable organizations may offer financial assistance for individuals who cannot afford the cost of herpes treatment. Inquire with local healthcare authorities or non-profit organizations for information on available support.
References:
https://www.who.int/news/item/01-05-2020-massive-proportion-world-population-living-with-herpes-infection
