Abstract

DETECTION OF HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS AMONG ATHLETES

Sana A. Abdul-Wahab, Yahya G. Karwi*, Reem G. Hussein and Salwa Sh Abdul-Wahid

Abstract

Background: Herpes simplex virus infections are common among professional athletes, the infection may occur because of mechanical, physical, and chemical agents’ or trauma. Aim: This study aims to summarize the clinical associations of HCV-1 infections among football players in relation to playing surface (natural grass and artificial grass). Patients & Methods: A comparative study was done on (120) males’ soccer players at different age groups their ages ranging from 13 – 50 years. Of the study sample (60) who play football on artificial green surface, and (60) play football on ground with natural grass. Results: the study results showed that the two study groups at different age groups have IgG antibodies positive titer against HSV-1 virus while the Ig M antibodies do not present in the serum of the studied players. The results also showed that the percent of IgG antibodies according to age group where higher at age 21-30 year in comparison it with age 31-40 which are the least. Also, the occurrence of virus antibodies was higher among soccer player aged 21-30 on natural grass. The occurrence of the virus at age 41-50 were less on players on artificial grass. Conclusions & Recommendations: Infections are common in contact sport athletes. The provider who cares for these athletes should be aware of the most common infections and their appropriate management. Early diagnosis and appropriate clinical management are important for treating the infected athlete, minimizing risk of transmission, and preventing large outbreaks.

Keywords: Herpes simplex infectious disease, skin infection, contact sports, soccer’s players; football players.