Randomization and Masking
Eligible participants were enrolled by the study investigators and assigned randomly (1:1) to valaciclovir 1 g tid or matching placebo for 8 weeks according to a prespecified randomization schedule. Mixed block sizes and no stratification were used. The randomization schedule was generated by an independent NICTU statistician using nQuery Advisor (Statsols). Both participants and investigators were masked to group assignment. Masking was achieved by gelatin encapsulation. Valaciclovir capsules contained valaciclovir tablets surrounded by microcrystalline cellulose, whereas placebo capsules contained microcrystalline cellulose only. Both valaciclovir and placebo capsules were identical.