The Centers for the Study of Bioterrorism and Emerging Infections is conducting a study investigating the risk factors, sexual behaviors, knowledge and attitudes of women who were recently diagnosed with Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infection from the greater Saint Louis metropolitan area. The social and emotional impact of recent HSV diagnosis, response to counseling provided at the time of diagnosis, and plans for future change in sexual behavior will be evaluated via an initial questionnaire and a six-month follow-up questionnaire. The results of this study will be used to develop an instrument enabling STD counselors and/or healthcare providers to assess the likelihood of condom use and partner notification in women with HSV diagnosis. The investigators will subsequently use these results to provide targeted messages in future STD prevention campaigns.

More information about the study, call Rachel Addison-Hardy at 977.4073