How place shapes genital herpes simplex distribution in South Korea: a Bayesian spatial analysis using National Health Insurance Service data.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Genital herpes simplex (GHS) infections have increased in South Korea over the past decade, yet the geographic distribution of GHS incidence rates remains poorly understood. This study examined the geographic distribution of GHS incidence rates across South Korea and identified place-specific risk factors to inform targeted prevention strategies.

Methods

Using the Korean National Health Insurance Service data from 2019, we analyzed age-standardized GHS incidence rates across 250 municipalities in South Korea. Spatial autocorrelation was assessed using Global Moran's I and hot spots were identified using the Getis-Ord Gi* analysis. Bayesian hierarchical regression models were used to quantify the associations between regional risk factors and GHS risk while account

SUBMITTER: Jang J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12403936 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature