Which group of individuals is at the highest risk for contracting genital herpes?

The group that is at the highest risk for contracting genital herpes is young adults aged 18-30. This demographic tends to engage in sexual activity more frequently, and their social behaviors often include having multiple partners, which increases the likelihood of exposure to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like genital herpes. Additionally, young adults may have a lower rate of using protective measures, such as condoms, and may not always be aware of their partner's sexual health history.

This age group also experiences a higher prevalence of various sexual health issues due to a combination of physiological, social, and lifestyle factors. The herpes simplex virus (HSV), which causes genital herpes, can be transmitted easily through sexual contact and particularly thrives among those who are more sexually active, often making young adults the most vulnerable.

In contrast, elderly individuals over 65, children under 12, and women during menopause do not typically have the same levels of sexual activity or risk factors associated with the transmission of genital herpes as young adults do. The older population may have reduced sexual activity or may be more educated and cautious regarding STIs, while children are not in the sexually active age range. Women in menopause might not have sexual activity due to age-related factors, further reducing their risk.