As an STD assistant, I understand your concerns about genital herpes (GH) and its prevalence. The 1 in 8 statistic you mentioned likely refers to the estimated number of people in Australia who have been infected with the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which causes genital herpes. However, it's important to note that many people with HSV-2 may not show any symptoms or may have very mild symptoms that go unnoticed, which is why they remain unaware of their infection status.

You're correct that asymptomatic carriers of the virus can potentially transmit it to their sexual partners without realizing it, as the virus can still shed and spread even in the absence of visible symptoms. This is one of the reasons why genital herpes is so prevalent – many people are unaware they have it and may unknowingly pass it on.

That being said, it's also true that individuals who are aware of their positive herpes status and take appropriate precautions, such as using condoms and avoiding sexual contact during outbreaks, can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

I want to emphasize that while the statistics may seem alarming, genital herpes is a manageable condition, and many people with the virus live healthy, fulfilling lives. If you have specific concerns or questions, I strongly encourage you to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance and support.

Remember, open communication, regular testing, and practicing safe sex are crucial steps in preventing the spread of sexually transmitted infections like genital herpes. If you need any further assistance or have additional questions, please don't hesitate to ask.