This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Herpes Awareness Day (2025) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Herpes Awareness Day is celebrated on October 13th.
Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Herpes Awareness Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as fun facts you ought to know about National Herpes Awareness Day.
📅 What day is National Herpes Awareness Day 2025?
In 2025, National Herpes Awareness Day is on Friday, October 13th. It is the 2nd Friday in October; in 2024, it is Sunday. There are until the next observance. You also can explore all the fun details and facts about October 13, 2023, that you might not be aware of.
National Herpes Awareness Day occurs on October 13 and serves as a platform to raise awareness about the various types of herpes infections, specifically genital herpes. The day aims to educate people about the causes, risks, and treatments associated with herpes. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to dispel misunderstandings surrounding the disease, initiate discussions about the realities of having a genital herpes infection, and potentially reduce the stigma attached to it. It is worth noting that approximately 16% of women aged 14 to 49 are affected by this condition.
📜 National Herpes Awareness Day History
However, the negative perception surrounding herpes is relatively recent. For most of modern medical history, the stigma associated with herpes was minimal. Although it was known to be a sexually transmitted infection, it was also spread through other means and was not recognized as a distinct infection until the 1960s.
However, by the 1980s, herpes, particularly Herpes Simplex II which is responsible for most genital cases, had gained a significant amount of public shame and disgrace. Time Magazine even referred to it as “the new sexual leprosy,” adding to the stigma and placing it alongside other sexually transmitted diseases as something to be feared.
In reality, having herpes should not greatly impact a person’s self-esteem or sexual health. Herpes Awareness Day aims to start a conversation about this issue and encourage people to seek treatment for their symptoms (as there is currently no cure). It also aims to facilitate a fair and open discussion about the actual impact of the virus on people’s lives. This topic has long been overdue, and FemiClear is leading the way in their efforts to support women with genital herpes in reclaiming their lives.
✅ National Herpes Awareness Day Facts
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👍 Why Is National Herpes Awareness Day Important
Women are twice as likely as men to develop genital herpes. Herpes is expected to affect 16% of women and barely more than 8% of males. National Herpes Awareness Day attempts to shed some light on this.
It is difficult to acknowledge to a doctor that you have herpes; thus, many people do not seek treatment because the stigma is too high.
The genital herpes stigma is widespread and undeserved. It is a relatively common condition that, while not curable, may be effectively treated. To eliminate this harmful stereotype, a dialogue must take place.
🙂 How To Observe National Herpes Awareness Day
⚡ If you think you have it, seek treatment
It’s important to emphasize that seeking medical help is crucial, even though many people find it difficult due to feelings of shame. If you’re experiencing symptoms, it’s essential to seek treatment in order to relieve some of your embarrassment, as you are not the only one facing this situation.
⚡ Educate yourself about genital herpes
How much do you know about HSV-1 and HSV-2? Chances are, you might not know as much as you thought. It’s important to take the initiative to learn about these diseases and the social prejudices attached to them.
⚡ Have a conversation about genital herpes
Although it may seem difficult, if we continue to avoid discussing genital herpes openly, the negative perception and discrimination against those who have the virus will persist for a longer period of time.
📅 When is National Herpes Awareness Day?
| YEAR | DATE | DAY |
| 2025 | October 13 | Monday |
| 2026 | October 13 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | October 13 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | October 13 | Friday |
| 2029 | October 13 | Saturday |
You can view all 🔗 October holidays, including 🔗 Health and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.
We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about National Herpes Awareness Day. So be sure to check back soon.