A method for inducing and enhancing protective and/or therapeutic immunity in a mammal to HSV includes the steps of at least one immunization with an effective amount of a DNA vaccine composition which comprises a first nucleic acid molecule comprising a DNA sequence encoding the HSV type 1 or type 2 gD protein, and a second nucleic acid molecule comprising a DNA sequence encoding each Interleukin-12 heterodimer subunit. The method also comprises at least one subsequent immunization with an effective amount of a protein vaccine composition which comprises the HSV type 1 or type 2 gD protein; and the IL-12 heterodimer. A local anesthetic may be included in the DNA vaccine composition in an amount that forms one or more complexes with the nucleic acid molecules. When provided to the mammal in suitable effective dosages according to this protocol, the vaccine compositions used in this method produce an unexpectedly good protective and/or therapeutic immune response against HSV in an immunized mammal. |