FIG. 1.

Distribution of the genital HSV-2 DNA levels as assessed by real-time PCR, according to the collection procedures of the genital secretions, in 25 HSV-2-seropositive, nonpregnant, childbearing-aged African women. Total cervicovaginal secretions were collected by standardized vaginal washing with 3 ml of phosphate-buffered saline, and the levels of HSV-2 DNA are expressed as log₁₀ DNA copies per milliliter of washing fluid. Endocervical samples were colleted by using dry swabs, and the levels of HSV-2 DNA in the swab samples are expressed as log₁₀ HSV-2 DNA copies per microgram of total DNA. The vertical and horizontal dashed lines indicate the positivity thresholds of detection in cervicovaginal lavages samples (2.6 log₁₀ copies/ml) and in whole DNA extracted from eluted endocervical swab samples (2.6 log₁₀ copies/μg DNA). The linear regression curve is depicted.