The herpes simplex virus, also known as HSV, is an infection that causes herpes. Herpes can appear in various parts of the body, most commonly on the genitals or mouth.

There are two types of the herpes simplex virus known as HSV-1 and HSV-2.

HSV-1: Primarily causes oral herpes, and is generally responsible for cold sores and fever blisters around the mouth and on the face.

HSV-2: primarily causes genital herpes, and is generally responsible for genital herpes outbreaks.

What causes herpes simplex?

The herpes simplex virus is a contagious virus that can be transmitted from person to person through direct contact. Children will often contract HSV-1 from early contact with an infected adult. They then carry the virus with them for the rest of their lives.

HSV-1 can be contracted from general interactions such as eating from the same utensils, sharing lip balm, and kissing. The virus spreads more quickly when an infected person is experiencing an outbreak. It’s also possible to get genital herpes from HSV-1 if someone who performed oral s*x had cold sores during that time.

HSV-2 is contracted through forms of intercourse with a person who has HSV-2. HSV-2 infections are spread through contact with a herpes sore. In contrast, most people get HSV-1 from an infected person who is asymptomatic or does not have sores.

Who is at risk of developing herpes simplex infections?

Anyone can be infected with HSV, regardless of age. The risk is based almost entirely on exposure to the infection.

In cases of s*xually transmitted HSV, people are more at risk when they get intimate without getting protection through the use of condoms.

Other risk factors for HSV-2 include:

• Having multiple s*x partners.
• Having another s*xually transmitted infection (STI).
• A weakened immune system.

Symptoms of herpes simplex

It’s important to understand that someone may not have visible sores or symptoms and still be infected by the virus. They may also transmit the virus to others.

Some of the symptoms associated with this virus include:

• Blistering sores (in the mouth or on the genitals).
• Pain during urination (genital herpes).
• Itching.

You may also experience symptoms that are similar to the flu. These symptoms can include:

• Fever.
• Swollen lymph nodes.
• Headaches.
• Tiredness.
• Lack of appetite.

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How is herpes simplex diagnosed?

This type of virus is generally diagnosed with a physical exam. A doctor may check the body for sores and ask about some of your symptoms.

A doctor may also request HSV testing. This is known as a herpes culture. This will confirm the diagnosis in the case of sores on the genitals. During this test, a doctor will take a swab sample of fluid from the sore and then send it to a laboratory for testing.

Blood tests for antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2 can also help diagnose these infections. This is especially helpful when there are no sores present.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for this virus. Treatment focuses on getting rid of sores and limiting outbreaks.

It’s possible that the sores will go away without treatment. However, a doctor may determine a patient needs one or more of the following medications:

• Acyclovir.
• Famciclovir.
• Valacyclovir.

These medications can help people infected with the virus reduce the risk of transmitting it to others. The medications also help to lower the intensity and frequency of outbreaks.

These medications may come in oral (pill) form or may be applied as a cream. For severe outbreaks, these medications may also be administered by injection.

Preventing the spread of herpes simplex infections

Although there is no cure for herpes, you can take measures to avoid contracting the virus or to prevent transmitting HSV to another person.

If you’re experiencing an outbreak of HSV-1, consider taking a few preventive steps:

• Try to avoid direct physical contact with other people.

 

• Don’t share any items that can pass the virus around, such as cups, towels, silverware, clothing, makeup, or lip balm.

 

• Don’t participate in oral s*x, kissing, or any other type of s*xual activity during an outbreak.

• Wash hands thoroughly and apply medication with cotton swabs to reduce contact with sores

 

• People with HSV-2 should avoid any type of s*xual activity with other people during an outbreak. If the person is not experiencing symptoms but has been diagnosed with the virus, a condom should be used during intercourse. But even when using a condom, the virus can still be passed to a partner from uncovered skin.

 

• Women who are pregnant and infected may have to take medication to prevent the virus from infecting their unborn babies.

 

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