Montréal, Canada
This year, members of Herpes Cure Advocacy attended the STI & HIV World Congress in Montréal, Canada — a global gathering of researchers, clinicians, public health leaders, and advocates dedicated to advancing sexual health. While the conference featured groundbreaking science and urgent conversations, one thing was clear: herpes still isn’t getting the attention it deserves.
Across hundreds of presentations, HSV (herpes simplex virus) was mentioned far less than other infections, despite its global prevalence and impact. A few notable exceptions stood out:
- Several symposia included HSV in broader discussions about vaccines, though these mostly reviewed existing knowledge rather than unveiling new trial results.
- A small number of posters addressed HSV, including two from HCA. One attendee at our neonatal HSV poster pointed out that this important topic still lags far behind the visibility of congenital syphilis or perinatal HIV.
- HSV also had a presence on the panel “No Shame in This Game: Using Filmmaking and Storytelling to Combat STI Stigma,” featuring Dr. Ina Park, Courtney Brame (Something Positive for Positive People), and filmmaker Jolene Hernandez, whose documentary No Shame in This Game spotlights the voices of people living with herpes.
While herpes representation in the scientific program was modest, our booth told a different story.
The HCA booth was one of the more well-attended, drawing steady interest from attendees of diverse backgrounds. Our interactive HSV trivia game quickly became a crowd favorite, with participants eager to test their knowledge and learn more. Many people started with only basic understanding of herpes, but the trivia — paired with explanations of correct answers — turned the game into a great educational experience.
The HSV keychains and pins we handed out were an unexpected hit. By the end of the conference, they could be spotted on lanyards and backpacks throughout the venue — and even around downtown Montréal. These small symbols became a visible reminder that herpes is part of the conversation, even when it’s overlooked in the formal agenda.
What we learned:
- There is interest in herpes — people will engage when given the opportunity.
- The scientific community still needs more dedicated research, funding, and discussion around HSV.
- Creative approaches like trivia, storytelling, and visual symbols work to spark awareness and reduce stigma.
Our work is far from done.
If we want herpes to be a priority at conferences like this — and in public health conversations worldwide — we need more advocates, more voices, and more visibility. HCA will continue to push for herpes research, better treatments, and ultimately a cure, but we can’t do it alone.
Now, more than ever, we need a stronger, louder community standing with us. Whether it’s sharing your story, supporting our initiatives, or helping us show up at global health events, your voice matters.
Together, we can ensure herpes is no longer an afterthought — but a central part of the conversation.