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What is herpes?
Herpes is a common viral disease caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types: HSV-1, which primarily causes cold sores, and HSV-2, which usually causes genital herpes. The disease is characterized by painful blisters and sores on the skin and mucous membranes.
Herpes is highly contagious and is transmitted through direct contact with sores or blisters, but it can sometimes also spread when there are no visible symptoms. There is no cure that removes the virus from the body, but effective medications are available to relieve symptoms and shorten outbreaks.
Causes and modes of transmission
Herpes is transmitted from person to person through direct contact with the infected area.
- Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1): Primarily associated with cold sores on or around the lips and in the mouth. The virus usually spreads through kissing, oral sex, or by sharing personal items such as lip balm.
- Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2): Mainly associated with genital herpes, which causes sores in the genital area. The virus is primarily transmitted through sexual contact.
The risk of transmission is highest during active outbreaks when open sores and blisters are present.
Symptoms A first outbreak often causes more noticeable symptoms than recurrent outbreaks. Common symptoms include:
- Cold sores (HSV-1): Blisters and sores around the lips or in the mouth, often preceded by a tingling, itching, or burning sensation in the skin.
- Genital herpes (HSV-2): Painful blisters and sores in and around the genital area, buttocks, or anus.
- General symptoms: Fever, swollen lymph nodes, and general malaise may occur, especially during the initial infection.
Treatment and prevention
- Antiviral medications: Prescription antiviral drugs reduce the severity of symptoms, shorten outbreaks, and can be taken preventatively for those who suffer from frequent recurrences.
- Pain relief and cooling compresses: Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses can help relieve pain, swelling, and itching.
- Good hygiene: Keeping the affected area clean and dry promotes healing and helps prevent secondary infections.
- Preventing transmission: Avoid kissing, oral sex, and direct contact with sores during an active outbreak. Condoms and dental dams reduce the risk of transmission during sexual contact, but do not provide 100% protection because herpes can be present on skin areas not covered by the condom.
