What is Herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2)

Herpes simplex virus is known as herpes. The virus is categorized into two types of herpes. HSV-1 is usually oral herpes and HSV-2 is usually genital herpes. There is no cure for the herpes simplex virus. Once a person has the virus, it remains in the body for a lifetime. However, taking medications like Valtrex and Acyclovir could help manage the symptoms of the herpes simplex virus.


Herpes simplex virus typically appears as a blister or as multiple blisters on or around affected areas. The blisters usually form on inside the mouth, on the lips, around the lips, genitals, or rectum. The blisters break, leaving tender sores.

Most commonly, HSV-1 causes sores around the mouth, inside the mouth and on the lips (sometimes called fever blisters or cold sores). HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, but most cases of genital herpes are caused by HSV-2. With genital HSV-2 infections, the infected person may have cold sores or a rash around the genitals area. Although HSV-2 sores may occur in other locations, these sores usually are found below the waist including the rectum


HSV-1 is transmitted through oral secretions. The virus is likely to spread by coming in direct oral contact with active sores on the skin. The virus is likely to spread through kissing. Once herpes hits air the virus dies almost instantly. The chance of catching herpes from sharing only personal items is almost non-existent.

A person usually gets a genital HSV-2 infection during sexual contact with someone who has a genital HSV-2 infection. An individual could catch oral HSV-2 by performing oral sex on a partner who has genital HSV-2. HSV-2 is responsible for oral herpes at least 5-10% of all HSV-2 cases.

HSV-1 and HSV-2 can be spread even if sores are not present. Herpes could still surface the skin if there are no active symptoms of herpes. A partner may come in direct skin-to-skin contact with the virus seem a condom doesn’t cover the entire genital region.

Herpes could be fatal to an infant. Government research indicates a mother has over a 99.9% chance of having a healthy infant with proper medical treatment. About 85% of the cases when an infant is born with herpes, the virus is passed to the infant during childbirth. If a mother has genital herpes outbreaks during the six to nine month range of her pregnancy a C-section is often needed.

By www.herpesdatingsite.biz