Herpes

Herpes is an infection caused by a herpes simplex virus (HSV).

There are two types of HSV:

• HSV type 1: HSV type 1 typically causes cold sores; however can also cause genital herpes. Most people get HSV-1 (herpes simplex type 1) as an infant or child. This virus can be spread by skin-to-skin contact with an adult who carries the virus.
• HSV type 2: A person usually gets HSV-2 (herpes simplex type 2) through sexual contact. HSV type 2 affects the genitals, buttocks or anal area and is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). HSV type 2 usually causes genital herpes, but it can infect the mouth as well.

Some people may not have any symptoms. Symptoms will include sores near the area where the virus entered the body. The sores will turn into blisters, become itchy and painful, and then heal.

Antiviral medications such as acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir can be used to help the body fight the virus.

The only way to ensure protection from STDs is to avoid any sexual contact. If you are sexually active, practicing safe sex can reduce your risk for STDs.

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the United States. About one out of every six people aged 14 to 49 years in the United States have genital herpes.

Herpes simplex viruses is spread from person to person through close contact. You can get a herpes simplex virus from touching a herpes sore. However, you may get herpes simplex from an infected person even if they do not have visible sores.

There are two types of HSV:

• HSV type 1: Most people get HSV-1 (herpes simplex type 1) as an infant or child. This virus can be spread by skin-to-skin contact with an adult who carries the virus.
• HSV type 2: Genital herpes can be spread by coming into contact with a person infected with HSV-1 or HSV-2. A person usually gets HSV-2 (herpes simplex type 2) through sexual contact. HSV type 2 affects the genitals, buttocks or anal area and is a sexually transmitted disease (STD).
• • Mothers can spread the herpes virus to their baby during childbirth.
  • Oral sex can spread HSV-1 to the genitals causing genital herpes.

Risk factors for HSV type 2 include:

• You are female
• Have had multiple sex partners
• Had sex for the first time at a young age
• Have (or had) another sexually transmitted infection
• Have a weakened immune system due to a disease or medication

See your doctor for painful blisters or sores around the mouth or genitals, especially during a first outbreak. Seek prompt care if sores are severe, near the eyes, or you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system.