Herpes is an infection caused by a herpes simplex virus (HSV).
| Infection | Where |
|---|---|
| Oral herpes | cold sores around the mouth or face |
| Genital herpes, a sexually transmitted infection | the genitals, buttocks or anal area |
| Other herpes infections | the eyes, skin or elsewhere |
The virus can be dangerous for newborns and people with weak immune systems.
Two types
- HSV-1 most often causes cold sores, but can also cause genital herpes.
- HSV-2 usually causes genital herpes, but can also infect the mouth.
Spread and symptoms
HSV spreads by direct contact. Some people have no symptoms. Others get sores near where the virus entered; they turn into blisters, become itchy and painful, then heal.
Most people have outbreaks several times a year, less often over time.
Treatment
Antiviral medicines help the body fight the virus, easing symptoms and reducing outbreaks.
Sources
Based on "Herpes Simplex," MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine; a work of the United States government in the public domain.
Licence: CC0 1.0 (public domain) · Adapted from medlineplus.gov
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