Herpes Simplex

Herpes is a common infection that is caused by a herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of HSV, Type 1 (HSV-1)and Type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 is most often responsible for cases of oral herpes and HSV-2 is most commonly responsible for cases of genital herpes. However, HSV-1 can infect the genital area. Both HSV types are characterized by the same pattern of infection. The primary infection occurs when the virus first infects an individual. In about 10% of individuals, sores or blisters develop. In others, there may be mild or no visible symptoms. The itchy, painful blisters break and form sores that eventually heal. The virus, however, remains in the body indefinitely.

After a latent period during which the virus remains inactive, patients generally experience several subsequent infections a year. These are called recurrent infections. Over time, the severity and frequency of recurrent infections decrease. Recurrent infections may be triggered by various factors, including fever, sun exposure, trauma, or a menstrual period; they may also recur for no obvious reason.

Herpes is not dangerous in otherwise healthy individuals; however, the sores (if present) may be painful. In immunocompromised individuals and newborn babies, herpes can be serious but rarely fatal. Unfortunately, the virus may be spread even when there are no symptoms (asymptomatic shedding). Many infected individuals are not even aware that they carry the virus.