HIV vs HPV vs HSV: How to Tell these STIs Apart

When it comes to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), the acronyms HIV, HPV, and HSV are often mentioned. Despite their similarities in name and mode of transmission, these viruses vary greatly in viral characteristics, symptoms, and treatment approaches. Understanding these differences not only aids in accurately identifying symptoms but also helps individuals make informed medical decisions when faced with related sexual health concerns, ultimately protecting both their own and their partner’s health.

A Closer Look at the Three Viruses

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

Viral characteristics: HIV is a retrovirus that targets and destroys white blood cells (CD4+ T cells and macrophages), gradually weakening the immune system. It can be found in blood, semen, and vaginal secretions.
Route of transmission: HIV is not spread by casual contact or air but rather through:

Sexual activity (vaginal, anal, or oral sex).
Blood contact (e.g., shared needles, improperly sterilised tattoo or piercing tools, contaminated blood for transfusion).
Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

Health Impact: Untreated HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), leaving individuals vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.
Symptoms: Flu-like symptoms at early stage, such as fever, chills, fatigue, sore throat, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and mouth sores.
Treatment: While there is no cure, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus to undetectable levels.
Prevention: Use condoms correctly, and consider pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) or post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) if at risk.

HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

Viral characteristics: HPV encompasses over 200 strains, with around 40 affecting the genital area. These strains are classified as high-risk or low-risk.
Route of transmission: Genital HPV infections spreads through skin-to-skin contact in the genital area, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex, as well as shared sex toys.
Health Impact: High-risk HPV can lead to cervical, anal, penile, vulvar, vaginal, and certain head and neck cancers. Low-risk HPV can cause cauliflower-like growths, as known as genital warts.
Symptoms: Most people are asymptomatic. Symptoms, if present, may include small, flesh-coloured non-painful growths around the genitals or anus.
Treatment: No direct cure for HPV exists, but treatments are available for symptoms caused by HPV, such as warts or precancerous changes. Options include topical medications, electrosurgery, cryotherapy or surgical removal.
Prevention: The HPV vaccine offers protection against the most strains that cause genital warts and cervical cancer. Correct use of condoms during sexual intercourse is advised.

HSV (Herpes Simplex Virus)

Virus Characteristics: HSV, commonly referred to as the herpes virus, is classified into two types: HSV-1 and HSV-2. It can infect various parts of the body, with the most common sites being the mouth (oral herpes) and the genitals (genital herpes).
Route of Transmission: HSV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, involving direct skin-to-skin contact with infected areas, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. The virus can be spread even when there are no visible ulcers or blisters.
Health Impact: HSV causes chronic infections with periodic outbreaks.
Symptoms: Many people remain asymptomatic. When symptoms do occur, they typically involve the formation of blisters at the site of infection, which rupture to release a clear fluid and then develop into ulcers. Additional symptoms may include painful urination, itching, and a tingling or burning sensation.
Treatment: While there’s no cure for herpes, antiviral medications can treat episodic outbreak or manage HSV infection in long run.
Prevention: Avoid intimate contact with individuals infected with HSV. The correct use of condoms and dental dams during sexual activity can also help minimise the risk.

A Quick Comparison Table: HIV vs HPV vs HSV

	HIV	HPV	HSV
Full Name	Human Immunodeficiency Virus	Human Papillomavirus	Herpes Simplex Virus
Route of Transmission	Sexual contact, blood, mother-to-child	Sexual contact	Sexual contact
Symptoms	Flu-like symptoms in early stages; weakened immunity later	Often asymptomatic; genital warts is possible	Blisters or asymptomatic
Health Impact	Can lead to AIDS	Can cause genital warts or cancers	Chronic, recurrent outbreaks
Curable?	No cure, but manageable with ART	No cure, and symptoms caused by HPV can be treated	No, but manageable with antivirals
Vaccine available?	No	HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9)	No
Testing methods	HIV RNA blood test, HIV antibody/antigen tests, rapid HIV antibody test	HPV DNA test	HSV Blood antibody test
Prevention	Correct Condom use, PrEP, PEP	Correct condom use, HPV vaccine	Correct use of condom and dental dams

Safe sex to reduce STI Risks

HIV, HPV, and HSV are three common but distinct sexually transmitted viruses, and many people still have misconceptions about their differences and associated risks. Since infections often do not present with obvious symptoms, some individuals mistakenly believe they are free from STIs, unknowingly continuing to spread the viruses. In reality, STIs can have varying incubation periods, and symptoms may be subtle or entirely absent, making them easy to overlook and spread the infection.

For those who are sexually active, practising safe sex is essential. This includes maintaining a mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who is free from infections and using condoms correctly to minimise the risk of transmission. Additionally, regular STI testing is highly recommended, as early detection not only helps identify infections but also ensures timely treatment and better disease management.

At OT&P Healthcare, we offer comprehensive STI testing, including screenings for HIV, HPV, and HSV. Our professional medical team ensures confidentiality and professional care throughout the process.