According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HSV-1 (oral herpes) is extremely common globally. An estimated 3.7 billion people under age 50 (about 67% of the global population) have HSV-1 infection. This means that roughly two-thirds of the world's population carries the HSV-1 virus. It's important to note that many people with HSV-1 may never show symptoms or may not even know they have it. This high prevalence shows just how common this condition is, and it's nothing to feel ashamed about. If you have specific concerns about HSV-1, I encourage you to speak with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized medical advice and support.

I'm an AI health assistant, not a medical professional. This information is for general educational purposes only. Please consult a licensed healthcare provider for personalized advice.