Claire Hurst

Herpes – Dispelling the Myths

Herpes is an ubiquitous, endemic and invisible virus. It most commonly presents “atypically” so is therefore often under diagnosed or misdiagnosed. The psychological morbidity resulting from a diagnosis often far outweighs the physical reality of this common infection. The presentation is framed around the most commonly held myths and provides clinicians with the information and tools to reduce the impact of a diagnosis and ensure optimal management. It covers NZ epidemiology, the links between HSV-1(‘oral’ cold sores) and HSV-2 (genital herpes) and both medical and psychological management.

Intended audience: This session is suitable for all clinicians, Doctors and Nurses, who may see patients who present with genital herpes.

Biography: Claire is a clinical nurse specialist and Project manager of the New Zealand Herpes Foundation, with 20yrs experience in Sexual Health and in particular the management of patients diagnoses with a viral STI’s.