It’s a Microbes, Microbes, Microbes World

We often forget that microbes are present in more places than we can think of. Just as easily as they are found on different areas on Earth, microbes can also be easily transferred from one person to another. Moreover, some of these microbes, known as pathogens, are capable of causing diseases. That’s right folks – the coronavirus is not the only microorganism out there that can disrupt our bodily systems. Let’s take a break from talking about the coronavirus and focus on a different disease, namely a sexually transmitted disease known as genital herpes.

As discussed in class, genital herpes is a disease that brings about genital lesions on the body. Moreover, herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) normally brings about this disease. This virus is a member of the Herpesviridae family. In addition to HSV-2, herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is also capable of causing this disease. However, the genital lesions that are caused by HSV-1 are less drastic than that brought about by HSV-2. It is important to note that both HSV-1 and HSV-2 consist of double-stranded DNA and an envelope, as well as have the capability of affecting the genitalia and mouth.

According to an article from the University of South Australia, researchers have discovered a way to transport an active ingredient in turmeric, known as curcumin, into cells in the human body. Derived from the turmeric plant, turmeric is known as a type of spice that is incorporated into dishes, such as curry. For all those curry lovers out there, it is known as the ingredient that adds a bitter flavor to the dish. The component, curcumin, is unique in that it aids in the reduction of swelling. By incorporating curcumin into very small nanoparticles, it is likely able to perform this function inside the human body. Specifically, it has the potential of decreasing the inflammation, or extent of blisters, that genital herpes can cause. In addition, scientists have mentioned that by ingesting this substance, it may lower the chances of the individual developing sexually transmitted infections as well. While there is still much research to be done on this topic, this treatment is becoming more and more of a reality and should not be overlooked.

Studies like these remind me of the fact that fruits and vegetables are not the only healthy items that humans can ingest. Moreover, herbs and spices, such as turmeric, can add nutritional value to our diets. That is why it is crucial to include a variety of foods in our daily lives! While it is important to find treatments for these diseases, it is also crucial to highlight prevention strategies that people could be following in order to lower the chances of getting infected with genital herpes. For example, individuals who practice sexual abstinence, or the practice of not engaging in sexual intercourse, have a very, very small chance of getting this disease. In addition, if you choose to be sexually active, by being involved in a monogamous relationship, you can reduce the likelihood of coming into contact with a sexual partner that has contracted genital herpes. In addition to being in a monogamous relationship, taking advantage of condoms that are coated with spermicide can help. However, it is important to note that condoms do not cover all of the areas of the genitalia that lesions can appear on.

In addition, according to a published article from The Lancet Infectious Diseases Journal, there seems to be a connection between the infection caused by HSV-2 and another virus: the human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV. The researchers compiled approximately 55 studies and analyzed each and every one of them to see what the chances of people with genital herpes obtaining HIV were. They reported that individuals who have genital herpes were three times more likely to be infected by HIV. Since genital herpes is a latent infection, it is going to cause more disturbances in the epithelial barrier. Since the barrier will not be able to fully prevent foreign microbes from entering, HIV will have an easier time entering the body. This highlights what researchers call the “cofactor effect” between these two viruses. Since immune cells will gather in the genitalia, HIV will have an easier time attacking these cells. Moreover, this means that individuals who are infected with HSV-2 probably have weaken immune responses and are more vulnerable to the virus than those who do not have any diseases. It is important to note that genital herpes can be more severe in those who are already infected with HIV as well.

It is important to see here that one problem can lead to another problem. Moreover, this information can contribute to why outbreaks or epidemics of either disease may occur. In addition, these findings highlight how the transmission and severity of the disease can be affected in detrimental ways when there is another disease involved. I believe that this reiterates the fact that being infected with any microbe that can cause disease can reduce the strength of your immune system. After everything we have learned in this class, it makes perfect sense that the studies that the researchers analyzed produced these results. Now more than ever, it is important to be cautious and knowledgeable on as much as you can concerning infectious diseases. By practicing safe and healthy habits, you can not only protect yourself, but also your loved ones as well. Like I mentioned before, it may be a microbes, microbes, microbes world, but that does not mean that we as humans are completely helpless!