Prevention of herpes genitalis by the 'Bulgarian' vaccine F.HSV-2V(PRK): preliminary clinical evidence.

Aim: To examine the antigenic properties of the formalin-inactivated herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) virus-particle vaccine F. HSV-2V(PRK), which has been used therapeutically in Bulgaria for 30 years, and to make preliminary assessment of its potential protective efficacy by a follow-up of vaccinated patients with herpes genitalis.

Methods: Properties of the vaccine were examined by standard immunological laboratory tests.

Seventeen years of application of herpes vaccines in Bulgaria.

This study reports on our experience with whole herpes simplex vaccines in Bulgaria for a period of 17 years. More than 1,500 immunized patients with herpes ophtalmicus showed a reduction of the recovery period, reduced number of the recurrences and reduced risk of visual damage. More than 14,000 patients suffering from other forms of herpes diseases for a longer period showed reduced recovery period and recurrence frequency in over 95% of the cases.

Preparation and efficacy of antiherpes type 1 and 2 subunit vaccines.

DNA free antiherpes subunit vaccines were prepared from diploid human embryonic lung cells infected either with type 1 or type 2 herpes simplex viruses (HSV). Virion and membrane-bound virus-specific glycoproteins were solubilized with Nonidet P-40 and separated by ultracentrifugation. The antigenic properties of the vaccine were tested in guinea pigs.