Turns out that flavonoids are able to fight the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), as well as reduce growths of abnormal cells in the cervix caused by the virus [2-3]. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

But before we answer that question, what is actually green tea?
Green tea is made from the leaves of the plant Camellia Sinensis, and may be consumed as a beverage, or as an extract to serve as medicine.

Even back then, chinese people identified it’s health benefits. Turns out that tea leaves contain two unique active compounds named methylxanthines and flavonoids.

Methylxanthines include caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline, which are a group of substances that are present in small quantities. The caffeine affects thinking and alertness, and is thought to stimulate the nervous system, heart and muscles by increasing the release of chemicals in the brain.

Flavonoids are responsible for most of its beneficial effects such as assisting in prevention of inflammation and cancer, lessen joint degeneration and help prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Even more strikingly, turns out that flavonoids are able to fight the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), as well as reduce growths of abnormal cells in the cervix caused by the virus [2-3].

And it doesn’t end there. Green tea extract is the first botanical agent approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for prescription use and is indicated as a treatment for external genital and perianal warts [3].

There are other natural antiviral remedies that contain Camellia Sinesis Extract (green tea extract), such as Novirin, a natural antiviral dietary supplement.

In a matter of fact, there are other natural antiviral remedies that contain Camellia Sinesis Extract (green tea extract), such as Novirin, a natural antiviral dietary supplement. Its formula contains five natural ingredients: Selenium, Camellia Sinesis Extract, Quercetin, Cinnamomum Extract, and Licorice Extract. The first ingredient is a trace element, and the other four are plant extracts. Each ingredient and its dose were chosen through a scientific approach.

Additionally, this formula was found to reduce HPV symptoms in two separate post-marketing clinical studies that followed FDA guidelines [4]. So it really works. And apparently it is effective against other viruses as well such as herpes virus, shingles virus, Cytomegallovirus and more.

Well, I myself love my cup of coffee every morning, but I sure am going to try having a cup of green tea instead every second day.

References:
1. Dattner, Christine; Boussabba, Sophie (2003), Emmanuelle Javelle, ed., The Book of Green Tea, Universe Books, p. 13,
2. Doan HQ1, Nguyen HP, Rady P, Tyring SK. “Expression Patterns of Immune-Associated Genes in External Genital and Perianal Warts Treated with Sinecatechins.” Viral Immunol. 2015 Mar 16.
3. Tyring SK “Effect of Sinecatechins on HPV-Activated Cell Growth and Induction of Apoptosis.” J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2012 Feb;5(2):34-41.
4. Polansky, H. Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published in September 2013.

The cocoa present in dark chocolate boosts the immune system!

There’s nothing like a nice big slab of chocolate! When you feel blue, before an exam, or even when you’re just craving for something sweet. However, chocolate is usually associated with unhealthy eating, which is mainly due to its high sugar and cream levels. But them, what is I told you, that chocolate is actually very very healthy?? Turns out that quality dark chocolate has remarkable health benefits [1]!

Dark chocolate is one of the most strongest antioxidants in the world. Cacao, from which chocolate is made, contains 15-20 times more antioxidants than blueberries and green tea! Pretty crazy huh?

And it doesn’t end there. It also contains stimulant substances such as caffeine and theobromine, which can improve brain function in the short term. Therefore it is recommended to eat three squares of chocolate before writing and exam- it will keep you concentrated for a least another hour and a half!

Other than being rich in fiber, Iron and Magnesium, it contains flavonols (plant compound) which improves blood flow to the brain thus improving cognitive function and memory.

Even more strikingly, according to a study, the cocoa present in dark chocolate boosts the immune system by influencing the body’s inflammatory response.

In addition to dark chocolate, you may also take Novirin and Gene-Eden-VIR to boost your immune system. They are natural antiviral supplements, backed by clinical studies that showed their effectiveness against a broad range of latent viruses. For more information click www.Novirin.com

Many studies have demonstrated cocoa’s ability to reduce the concentration of molecules in the body that are involved in inflammatory response [2-3].

So in a matter of fact, by having 3 squares of dark chocolate a day, you may help your immune system to fight viruses, especially those latent viruses that manage to hide away from your immune system!

In addition to dark chocolate, you may also take Novirin and Gene-Eden-VIR to boost your immune system. They are natural antiviral supplements, backed by clinical studies that showed their effectiveness against a broad range of latent viruses. Such viruses includes Herpes, HPV, Hepatitis, CMV (Cytomegallovirus) shingles virus and EBV (Epstein Barr virus) [4].

But wait, that fact that dark chocolate is so healthy doesn’t mean you should reach for the Reese’s and M&M. Milk chocolate contains high levels of sugar and cream, and low levels of cacao. So milk chocolate isn’t as healthy as dark chocolate. So remember, When buying dark chocolate, make sure the chocolate you buy is with at least 70% cocoa.

References
1. Forbes.com – Cohen, J. “12 Best Foods To Boost Brain Power.” Published February 5, 2015.
2. Francisco J. Pérez-Cano, Malen Massot-Cladera, Àngels Franch, Cristina Castellote, and Margarida Castell. “The effects of cocoa on the immune system.” Front Pharmacol. 2013; 4: 71.
3. Borreli, L. “Benefits of Chocolate: The Common Cold And 4 Illnesses That Can Be Treated By Chocolate Consumption.” Published August 8, 2013.
4. Polansky, H. Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published in September 2013.

An infection with VZV during the first 28 weeks of the pregnancy increases the risk of damage to the eyes, legs, arms, brain, bladder or bowel in 1%-2% of the babies [1]. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

While some viruses won’t cause any harm to a child or adult, others may cause severe health and developmental problems in a fetus or newborn baby with a compromised immune system.

I’d like to focus on the Varicella zoster virus (VZV). Wait, perhaps you’re more familiar with the chickenpox virus? Well, in actual fact, it is exactly the same virus. This virus causes both shingles and chickenpox. This first phase of this virus is chickenpox, whereas the second phase is always shingles. In between the two phases the virus establishes a lifelong latent infection.

So in a matter of fact, when the immune system is weakened, for instance in case of chemotherapy, AIDS, in neonates or during a post transplant treatment, the VZV virus can reactivate and awaken from a latent state, causing the disease known as shingles as well as other, serious complications [3].

An infection with VZV during the first 28 weeks of the pregnancy increases the risk of damage to the eyes, legs, arms, brain, bladder or bowel in 1%-2% of the babies [1].

Therefore, it is very important that women who aren’t sure that they have had chickenpox must avoid anyone with the infection. It is important to note that pregnant women who have already had chickenpox do not need to avoid contact, because they have already been immunized against the virus [2].

I bet your next question might be, can I catch shingles or chickenpox from a person who has shingles? Well, you can catch chickenpox from being exposed to a person with shingles if you have not had chickenpox yourself. However, you cannot catch shingles from a person with chickenpox, or catch shingles from a person with shingles. As I noted above, Shingles is a later phase of the chickenpox.

Adults and teenagers over the age of 14 are more likely than children to have complications resulting from chickenpox, therefore, they should take the medication. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

In some cases, women may be unsure whether they have been infected with the virus in the past or not. So then, how should they know whether to be careful or not? Well, they can ask their GP for a blood test that check immunity to the virus.

But hold on, what about treatment for chickenpox?

Turns out there is an effective vaccine that is administered during childhood in certain countries such as USA, Canada and Australia [3].

In addition to the vaccine there are antiviral pills such as aciclovir that can reduce the severity of chickenpox, However, theses pills don’t eliminate the virus from the body but stop the virus from replicating.

Adults and teenagers over the age of 14 are more likely than children to have complications resulting from chickenpox, therefore, they should take the medication. However, they should take it only if they start within 24 hours of the rash first developing. If medication is first administered after this time it is not likely to have much of an effect [3]. Additionally, there is natural treatment. The oral antiviral product Novirin has a formula that was shown to be effective in reducing viral symptoms in two post-marketing clinical studies that followed FDA guidelines [4].

So, if you’re pregnant, or planning, you must show responsibility by being aware of the various viral infections that can harm you and your baby.

References:
1. Russell, R. “New guidelines on chickenpox and pregnancy” – WebMD.com. Published January 21, 2015.
2. The Herald – “CHICKENPOX ALERT FOR PREGNANT WOMEN.” – Published January 21, 2015
3. Patient.co.uk – “Chickenpox in Adults and Teenagers.” Last Checked August 21, 2014.
4. Polansky, H. Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published in September 2013.

The majority of people who test positive for HSV-2 have never been officially diagnosed with genital herpes, so in a matter of fact, most infected people don’t even know they carry the virus. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Health, is freedom.
Always.
Not the amount of money you have in the bank, not which car you own and not how big and well designed your house is.
Only health.

Health is a value that allows you to enjoy all your goals and things you achieved in life.
Remember that.

Did you know, that other people may be harming your freedom without knowing it? So actually, YOU are the one harming your health without knowing it! Sounds pretty crazy huhhh?
Turns out that, according to a new study, up to 400 million people may transmit the genital herpes virus (HSV-2) to their sex partners [1].

The majority of people who test positive for HSV-2 have never been officially diagnosed with genital herpes (HSV-2), so in a matter of fact, most infected people don’t even know they carry the virus [2].

Taking responsibility of your health is nothing to be ashamed about, thus asking your new partner to be tested for herpes prior to sexual intercourse is very much important! Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

As noted before, there are millions of HSV infected individuals who don’t know they are infected, so actually, uninfected individuals may be unaware of having sex with an infected person.
There was hope that herpes transmission would be prevented with the discovery of drugs that prevent herpes outbreaks, however, according to different evidence, this may not be true [3].

So even if a person is aware of being infected with genital herpes (HSV-2),and is taking anti-herpes drugs that prevent herpes outbreaks, he or she can still infect their sex partners.

The problem is that people are busy worrying about HIV infection, while the likelihood of someone to become infected with HIV is far lower than herpes and other sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s).
Taking responsibility of your health is nothing to be ashamed about, thus asking your new partner to be tested for herpes prior to sexual intercourse is very much important!

References:
1. Katharine J. Looker ,Amalia S. Magaret, Katherine M. E. Turner, Peter Vickerman, Sami L. Gottlieb, Lori M. Newman. “Global Estimates of Prevalent and Incident Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Infections in 2012.” Published: January 21, 2015DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0114989
2. Melnick, M. “How Many Patients Spread Herpes, But Don’t Even Know They Have It?” Time.com – Published April 12, 2011.
3. DeNoon, D. “Got Genital Herpes? You’re Still Infectious, Even if Drugs Cut Symptoms.” WebMD.com – Published January 5, 2012.

Turns out that a research team investigated whether inhibitors of a specific viral protein would stop and delay the replication of HSV-1 and HSV-2. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Treating viruses isn’t an easy task. They take over the cell, use its activities in their favor, and therefore are considered parasites [1].

An important question we should discuss is, why don’t doctors prescribe antibiotics for viral infections? Well, the answer lies within the bacteria’s structure.

Unlike viruses, bacteria are very similar to each other and different from us humans. This is reflected, for example, in very conserved protein elements different from ours found on their outer surface [2].

Antibiotics target those specific conserved elements which are significant for bacteria activity, thus eliminating the bacteria from the body. This fact becomes a problem when antibiotics eliminate good bacteria from the body as well [3].

Viruses, are actually parasites, and unlike bacteria, their elements aren’t conserved between one another and strikingly, in some cases, they mimic elements we have in our cells. This fact makes it difficult for our immune system to recognize viruses as a foreign element [1].

Therefore, treating viruses requires high creativity and very deep thought from doctors, researchers and pharmaceutical companies.

Over the years, the scientific community finally realized that understanding the molecular process of viral infection is important and will aid in the development of antiviral drugs.
For instance, acyclovir takes advantage of a specific viral molecular pathway and thus prevents further viral replication without affecting the normal cellular processes.

Research team hopes that herpes virus changes very slowly. That gives them a better chance at investigating something that can work for a long time without allowing the virus to mutate as rapidly as currently approved treatments do [4-5]. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Turns out that a research team investigated whether inhibitors of a specific viral protein would stop and delay the replication of HSV-1 and HSV-2. Strikingly, the inhibitors stopped accumulation of viral genomes and infectious particles and blocked the viral replication cycle [4]. Do I smell new herpes treatment???

These results are very encouraging since they enable an additional pathway to fight the virus. And it doesn’t end there, after scientists discover the mechanism by which this drug inhibits the spread of the virus, it can be used along with other antivirals as a cocktail, similar to HIV treatment, therefore preventing resistance.

Turns out that one of the tested inhibitors has already proven effective in animals and another is found in a topical anti fungal already FDA approved for use! [5]

Research team hopes that herpes virus changes very slowly. That gives them a better chance at investigating something that can work for a long time without allowing the virus to mutate as rapidly as currently approved treatments do [4-5].
References:
1. Koonin EV, Senkevich TG, Dolja VV. The ancient Virus World and evolution of cells. Biol. Direct. 2006;1:29.
2. Woese CR, Fox GE (1977). “Phylogenetic structure of the prokaryotic domain: the primary kingdoms”. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 74 (11): 5088–90.
3. Goodman, Louis, & Gilman, Alfred (1941). The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics (1st ed.) New York: The Macmillan Company.
4. J. E. Tavis, H. Wang, A. E. Tollefson, B. Ying, M. Korom, X. Cheng, F. Cao, K. L. Davis, W. S. M. Wold, L. A. Morrison. Inhibitors of Nucleotidyltransferase Superfamily Enzymes Suppress Herpes Simplex Virus Replication.Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 2014; 58 (12): 7451
5. Saint Louis University. “Enzyme inhibitors suppress herpes simplex virus replication, study finds.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 18 December 2014. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/12/141218131937.htm>.

According to a new study, reactivation of the herpes virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) is known to cause several different types of brain and brain’s fluid inflammations, such as meningitis (inflammation of the layers lining the brain) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain itself, which is much more serious). Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Many studies are conducted on the Herpes virus on an every day basis, and as a result, new facts are discovered. But before we begin, what is the herpes virus infection all about??
Herpes virus 1 and 2, are viruses that infect humans [2]. Herpes-1 is that virus which causes those annoying cold sores and watery blisters on the skin, mainly near the mouth, whereas herpes-2 is that virus which causes genital sores and blisters- both of which can be a total bummer [2,3].

So, first thing’s first- lets say you caught herpes: what’s next? Besides the initial symptoms, the virus knows how to travel to your nerve cells, and transfer to a latent state, which is basically similer to falling asleep in your nerves. And, not only it goes to sleep, but it can hide from your immune system!

And finally, beware- if you are by any chance stressed prior to an exam or decided to go sunbathing or tanning at the beach, you may wake that darn devil up, and as a result he will travel back to your skin and you will get more cold sores on your mouth or blisters on your genitals, depends on which type of virus you have [2].

What’s interesting about herpes viruses is that many people are infected with HSV without even knowing. Moreover, infected people can transmit the virus without having symptoms, and as a result spread the infection to people unknowingly.
Many people who are in a relationship for many years, and have never experienced herpes outbreak’s, may link a partners sudden herpes outbreak to cheating.

However, the timing of transmission is usually unknown, so genital herpes infection may appear even after many years in a monogamous relationship.

However, the timing of transmission is usually unknown, so genital herpes infection may appear even after many years in a monogamous relationship.

Many people who are in a relationship for many years, and have never experienced herpes outbreak’s, may link a partners sudden herpes outbreak to cheating. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

According to a new study, reactivation of the herpes virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) is known to cause several different types of brain and brain’s fluid inflammations, such as meningitis (inflammation of the layers lining the brain) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain itself, which is much more serious).

And it doesn’t end there. According to a new study, reactivation of the herpes virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) is known to cause several different types of brain and brain’s fluid inflammations, such as meningitis (inflammation of the layers lining the brain) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain itself, which is much more serious). To be more specific, HSV encephalitis is mainly caused by HSV-1, whereas meningitis is more often caused by HSV-2. And as a result, powerful seizures may occur [3-4].
The amount of health problem caused by herpes virus infection amazes me each time. To me, knowledge is power. Therefore, read, learn, and don’t leave your health in another persons hands. Take responsibility for your health.

 
References:
1. Pebody, R. G., et al. “The seroepidemiology of herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2 in Europe.”Sexually transmitted infections 80.3 (2004): 185-191.
2. 2. Nahmias, André J., and William E. Josey. “Herpes simplex viruses 1 and 2.” Viral infections of humans. Springer US, 1984. 351-372.‏
3. Neil W. Andersona, William Sistrunkb and Matthew J. Binnickera “Simultaneous Detection of Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 in the Cerebrospinal Fluid of a Patient with Seizures and Encephalitis.” Journal of Clinical Microbiology. Published in January 2015.
4. Meningitis.org – Viral Meningitis

So, a few smart scientists came up with the idea of creating a vaginal ring, which is used to prevent herpes infection, and is also used as a means of birth control. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Wouldn’t it be amazing if it were possible to prevent sexually transmitted diseases? Imagine not needing to do the “talk” before getting involved in a sexual relationship.
So far, avoiding sexually transmitted disease is mainly by using a condom. Moreover, asking your partner to conduct and STD test before sexual encounter, is very much important too!

Preventing herpes isn’t an easy task due to the fact that sometimes, an infected person may be shedding the virus even without having outbreaks.

Preventing herpes isn’t an easy task due to the fact that sometimes, an infected person may be shedding the virus even without having outbreaks.

Aside from preventing STD’s, it is not always the right time to fall pregnant, and as a result, women prefer to use contraceptives. There are different ways to prevent pregnancy for example, birth control pills, diaphragm, condoms, spermicide and vaginal ring use.

So, a few smart scientists came up with the idea of creating a vaginal ring, which is used to prevent herpes infection, and is also used as a means of birth control.

So, a few smart scientists came up with the idea of creating a vaginal ring, which is used to prevent herpes infection, and is also used as a means of birth control.

This new multipurpose ring contain a combination substances known as MZC. Previous research found that an MZC gel lowered the risk of catching herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2) [1].
The experiment was conducted on monkeys. In the study, the MZC plus hormonal contraceptive levonorgestrel rings reduced the likelihood of becoming infected with HSV-2 by about 30 percent. As for the monkeys that did acquire genital herpes, the ring lowered the rate of viral shedding (i.e, the rate at which the virus may pass on to a different monkey) [1].

However, this is not the first multipurpose vaginal ring to be researched for use against the herpes virus. Collaborative research from the University of Utah and the reproductive health research organization CONRAD showed that a vaginal ring using the topical microbicide tenofovir could help prevent HSV-2 transmission for up to 90 days [3].

Until this vaginal ring is FDA approved, we must continue acting responsible as much as possible in order to prevent the spread of viruses. Image by: freedigitalphotos.net

The following research results shows promise in development of multipurpose vaginal rings.

However, it is important to remember that the former new multipurpose ring has not been tested on humans, and developing an effective product with FDA approved drugs takes time.
Until this vaginal ring is FDA approved, we must continue acting responsible as much as possible in order to prevent the spread of viruses.

References:
1. Aidsmeds.com – “Vaginal Ring May Protect Against HIV, Herpes, HPV and Pregnancy.” Published on November 13, 2014.
2. healthline.com – Haskins, J. “First Intravaginal Ring to Protect Against Pregnancy, HIV, and Herpes.” Published on November 12, 2013.

Amadeus, the company that developed the HPV vaccine, is now developing a Herpes vaccination, or to be more accurate, HSV-2. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Viruses are significant factors with regard to population changes throughout history. For instance, history could be different, had knowledge of the smallpox vaccine discovered in China a thousand years ago reach Europe (and America) on time. Smallpox plague killed a third of Europe’s population in the 14th century. It was responsible for the fall of at least three empires around the world, almost destroyed the entire population of South America and by the end of the 18th century killed more than 400,000 people each year in Europe [1,2].

The latter is just a small example to viruses various impacts during history. It was up to extraordinary people along history, to bring medical revolution.
Vaccination means immune protection.
Vaccines protect against dangerous infectious diseases that can cause great suffering, severe disability and even death. They can be used to prevent the spread of infection, as well as treat current infections by effectively activating the immune system [3,4].

How does a vaccine work?

Vaccination relies on the body’s ability to defend itself better against pathogens, if exposed to them in the past. When a deadly virus encounters a person for the first time, the virus does not allow the immune system to adapt to it and fight it.

Vaccination relies on the body’s ability to defend itself better against pathogens, if exposed to them in the past. When a deadly virus encounters a person for the first time, the virus does not allow the immune system to adapt to it and fight it. Therefore, the disease will break out in all its fury, not allowing the body to defend itself, making it a losing battle [5].
We have come to realize that, injecting weakened viruses puts our immune system in an advantage, a way for the body to recognize it and deal with it better in the future, and, although the disease does erupt as a result of the vaccine itself (containing the virus, even if it is weakened), it causes very mild symptoms, if at all.

Vaccination is safe and effective.

All vaccines undergo long and careful review by scientists, doctors, and the federal government to make sure they are safe. And if that is not enough, in the United States, all vaccines must go through extensive testing to show that it works and that it is safe before the FDA will approve it.

The HPV vaccine is a very important vaccine developed recently. This vaccine prevents infection with certain strains of HPV that causes, among other health problems, cervical cancer [6].

Amadeus, the company that developed the HPV vaccine, is now developing a Herpes vaccination, or to be more accurate, HSV-2.

Amadeus, the company that developed the HPV vaccine, is now developing a Herpes vaccination, or to be more accurate, HSV-2.

The vaccine has just completed phase 1 vaccine trial, and is now about to enter phase 2. Results of the phase 1 trial showed that the new herpes vaccine produced an immune response in 95% of the humans it was tested in [7].

Currently, the vaccine is destined to treat people who are already infected with HSV-2, however, over time it will be tested whether the vaccine also works to prevent the spread of the virus.

In term of natural treatment, there are two effective and clinically proved products on the market called Novirin and Gene- Eden- VIR [8]. For more information, Click here: http://www.buy-gene-eden.com/

Although this vaccination development seems promising, we must not be complacent. The vaccine in question is against HSV-2 and not HSV-1, and in rare cases HSV-1 may also cause genital herpes.

Moreover, it will take still a while until the vaccination passes further testing and gains FDA approval. So we must continue taking responsibility to prevent further spreading of the virus.

References:
1. D. Littman RJ, Littman ML. The Athenian plague: smallpox. Proceedings of the American Philological Association. 1969; 100:261-75.
2. E. Miller, G. 1980. Discussion: times, places, and persons, p. 109-114. In A. M. Lilienfeld (ed.), Aspects of the history of epidemiology. The Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore.
3. Neighmond, Patti (2010-02-07). “Adapting Vaccines For Out Aging Immune Systems” Morning Edition (NPR).
4. Immunization Action Coalition, Top Ten Reasons to Protect Your Child by Vaccinating
5. “Vaccine Overview” (PDF). Smallpox Fact Sheet. Retrieved 2008-01-02.
6. news.com.au – “Professor Ian Frazer is developing vaccines for herpes simplex and cervical cancer.” Published on October 03, 2014.
7. ProactiveInvestors.com.au – “Admedus vaccine for herpes has success; moves to next clinical trial.” Published on October 2, 2014.
8. Polansky, H., Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published on August 12, 2013.

Genital herpes infection, usually caused by HSV-2 virus, has a social stigma attached to it. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

There are many stigmas surrounding emerging viral infections.Stigmas which serves as a constant source of gossip, and as a result display certain viral infection in a rather negative light.

Genital herpes infection, usually caused by HSV-2 virus, has a social stigma attached to it. It is thought of as a disease only the promiscuous and cheating type get, and is a popular joke topic [1].

The first question which struck my mind was,” Why don’t people make jokes about HIV\AIDS or HPV? They are serious viral infections!” I guess the reason is because they cause serious illness such as cancer, making it no joke [1].

Other STD’s such as Chlamydia, syphilis, crabs, scabies, and gonorrhea are sometimes the target of jokes, but they are typically curable, so people won’t have to tolerate the annoyance for too long.However, genital herpes isn’t curable which strengthens existing social stigma around it [1].

For some, physical symptoms lead to extreme mental suffering. Insecurity, discouragement, rejection, humiliation, shame, and isolation are only few examples caused by this stigma (genital herpes).What’s even more absurd is that genital herpes usually doesn’t show up most of the year! So there is actually no reason for stigmatizing this condition! [1]

Interestingly, according to a study, being open about genital herpes assists in stopping some mental fears.

Interestingly, according to a study, being open about genital herpes assists in stopping some mental fears.

Moreover, couples who share this information could reduce the risk of transmitting herpes by agreeing to use condoms, holding off sex during outbreaks, and avoiding skin to skin contact around the genital region [2].And besides, revealing the fact of being infected with genital herpes to other people, may contribute to awareness regarding new antiviral treatments in the market.

Couples who share this information could reduce the risk of transmitting herpes by agreeing to use condoms, holding off sex during outbreaks, and avoiding skin to skin contact around the genital region. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

The stigmatizing process in society is a natural process which occurs due to man’s natural tendency of constant gossip.However, we must not allow that kind of gossip lose control to the extent of incorrect facts as in the case of genital herpes.If infected with herpes, telling your partner, family member, or close friend, can greatly ease shame rejection and isolation feelings. As Frank Warren once said, “Trade your secretes and become who you are [3].”

References:
1. Fortenbury, J. The Overblown Stigma of Genital Herpes. Published July 28, 2014.
2. Sabo, E. Overcoming the Stigma of Herpes. Published May 26, 2010.
3. Frank Warren, Post secret, 09.06.08

According to the study, anger, which depresses the immune system causes the body to be more exposed to viruses. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Sociologist Peggy Thoits, described emotions as “involving physiological components, cultural or emotional labels (e.g., anger, surprise etc.), expressive body actions, and the evaluation of situations and contexts” [1]. Emotions are often associated with ones mood, temperament, personality and motivation [2].

An interesting fact, which I’m sure most of you are aware of, is that emotions are also influenced by hormones and neurotransmitters, for instance, dopamine, noradrenaline, serotonin, oxytocin, cortisol etc. Therefore, non of us will be surprised of the alternative definition of emotion, “ a positive or negative experience that is associated with a particular pattern of physiological activity” [3].

So, I’m sure it’s a bummer being sad or angry.

And other than the lousy felling we have while experiencing those kinds of emotions, they have a huge impact on our physiological status a health.

And let me tell you one thing, you can be sure it is not a positive impact.

Anger causes many physiological problems, such as increasing blood pressure, threat of a stroke, heart disease, depression, anxiety disorders, and, in general, depresses the immune system.

And it doesn’t end there, in order to find relief, angry people use other health endangering habits such as smoking or drinking, or via compulsive behavior habits such as workaholism and perfectionism [6].

According to a recent study, anger, anxiety, happiness, and relaxation have either a positive or negative impact on a patient’s health depending on the type of emotion and its duration [4]. Moreover, an additional study showed that “anger is bad for your health” [5].

According to a recent study, anger, anxiety, happiness, and relaxation have either a positive or negative impact on a patient’s health depending on the type of emotion and its duration [4].

Moreover, an additional study showed that “anger is bad for your health” [5].

According to the study, anger, which depresses the immune system causes the body to be more exposed to viruses.

What was interesting to see in the study is how IgA decreased as a result of stress and anger, causing us to be more vulnerable to respiratory problem such as colds or flu, while on the other hand increased as a result to feelings such as care and compassion [7].

Lets use the Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) as an example.

When a person is angry, he is creating a right environment for latent viruses due to suppressed immune system, which may cause EBV to reactivate [8], and when the virus is reactivated in replicates and can cause many different symptoms.

we need to focus on moderating these feelings, taking whatever caused them in perspective, in order to avoid unpleasant health problems in the future. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.com

As Alberts Schweitzer once said, “Happiness is nothing more than good health and a bad memory.”

Anger, sadness and stress are common feelings which we experience on an everyday basis.

They cannot be ignored, and are an important component of our lives. However, we need to focus on moderating these feelings, taking whatever caused them in perspective, in order to avoid unpleasant health problems in the future.

References:
1. Thoits, P. A. (1989). The sociology of emotions. Annual Review of Sociology, 15, 317-342.
2. “Theories of Emotion”. Psychology.about.com. 2013-09-13. Retrieved 2013-11-11.
3. Schacter, Daniel L. (2011).Psychology Second Edition. 41 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010: Worth Publishers. p. 310.
4. Brod S1, Rattazzi L, Piras G, D’Acquisto F. “As above, so below” Examining the interplay between emotion and the Immune System. Immunology. 2014 Jun 18.
5. Why anger is bad for you. Published on March 14, 2014.
theaustralian.com.au/news/world/why-anger-is-bad-for-you/story-fnb64oi6-1226854026035#
6. CompassionPower – Anger and Health.compassionpower.com/AngerandHealth.php
7. Anger suppresses your immune system. Published April 14, 2011. aetiology.co.nz/14/anger-suppresses-your-immune-system/
8. Microbiology and Immunology On-Line – University of South Carolina School of Medicine – Virology – Chapter Eleven – Herpes Viruses. Last updated May 24, 2011.