Herpes
What is herpes?
Herpes is a viral infection that can cause sores or blisters on or around the mouth, genitals, or anus. There are two types of herpes viruses, herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 is typically associated with oral herpes, while HSV-2 is typically associated with genital herpes, but both types of herpes can occur in either location.
Who's at risk for herpes?
Anyone can contract herpes, but certain populations may be at higher risk, including:
- People who have close contact with someone who has herpes
- People who have unprotected sex
- People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or undergoing chemotherapy
What causes herpes?
Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus, which is typically spread through close contact with someone who has the virus, such as through kissing or sexual contact.
How does herpes start?
Herpes may begin with the appearance of small, painful blisters or sores on or around the mouth, genitals, or anus. Other symptoms may include:
- Itching or burning in the affected area
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Flu-like symptoms, such as fever or headache
What are the symptoms of herpes?
The symptoms of herpes may vary, but may include:
- Small, painful blisters or sores on or around the mouth, genitals, or anus
- Itching or burning in the affected area
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Flu-like symptoms, such as fever or headache
How is herpes diagnosed?
Diagnosing herpes typically involves a comprehensive evaluation of a person's symptoms, medical history, and risk factors, as well as diagnostic tests such as a viral culture or blood test to detect the presence of the herpes virus.
How can herpes be treated?
Treatment for herpes may involve antiviral medications to help suppress the virus and reduce the severity and frequency of outbreaks. Other medications may be used to manage symptoms, such as pain or itching.
What complications may occur with herpes?
Complications of herpes may include:
- Spread of the virus to other parts of the body or to other people
- Increased risk of contracting HIV or other sexually transmitted infections
- Recurrent outbreaks of sores or blisters in the affected area
- Rarely, serious complications may occur in people with weakened immune systems, such as herpes encephalitis or meningitis
How can I prevent herpes?
Herpes can be prevented by taking precautions to avoid exposure to the virus, such as:
- Avoiding close contact with someone who has herpes, especially during an outbreak
- Using condoms or other barriers during sexual contact
- Not sharing personal items such as razors or towels that may come into contact with the virus
- Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently
Long-term management of herpes
People with herpes may require ongoing medical care and monitoring to manage their condition and prevent future outbreaks. This may involve regular use of antiviral medications to suppress the virus, as well as taking steps to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others.
What is recent research saying about herpes?
Recent research in herpes has focused on improving prevention, diagnosis, and management of the condition, as well as identifying new treatment options and risk factors. Some of the promising areas of research include:
- Development of new antiviral medications and other therapies to help manage herpes and reduce the frequency of outbreaks
- Investigation of the impact of herpes on health disparities, including the disproportionate burden of the disease on certain populations
- Exploration of the use of vaccines to prevent herpes infections, including both HSV-1 and HSV-2
Where can I go for more information on herpes?
If you or someone you know has herpes or wants more information on the condition, it is important to seek help from a healthcare provider who specializes in the treatment of sexually transmitted infections. The following organizations also provide information and resources on herpes:
