Herpes Infections - Types and Management

Herpes infections are caused by the herpes simplex virus and can manifest as oral or genital herpes.
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Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Herpes Infections FAQ


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Is herpes a genital infection?

Herpes is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two types of herpes: HSV-1 and HSV-2. People contracting the virus may experience an outbreak on their genitals or around the mouth. Both types of the herpes simplex virus are incurable but can be managed with the right approach.

What is herpes simplex?

Herpes simplex, often known simply as herpes, is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Herpes infections are categorized by the area of the body that is infected. The two major types of herpes are oral herpes and genital herpes, though other forms also exist. Oral herpes involves the face or mouth.

What is herpes simplex virus (HSV)?

Herpes simplex virus (HSV), known as herpes, is a common infection that can cause painful blisters or ulcers. It primarily spreads by skin-to-skin contact. It is treatable but not curable. There are two types of herpes simplex virus.

What is genital herpes?

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is caused by herpes simplex viruses (HSV) types 1 and 2. This is the same type of virus that causes cold sores. Around 1 in every 8 sexually active Australian adults have genital herpes. Genital herpes can cause outbreaks (flare-ups) of blisters or sores on the genitals and anus.

How does herpes affect the body?

Herpes infection can cause sores or breaks in the skin or lining of the mouth, vagina, and rectum. This provides a way for HIV to enter the body. Even without visible sores, herpes increases the number of immune cells in the lining of the genitals. HIV targets immune cells for entry into the body.

Is genital herpes a lifelong infection?

Although genital herpes is a lifelong infection, the number of outbreaks may decrease over time. Your partner has an STD or symptoms of an STD. STD symptoms can include an unusual sore, a smelly genital discharge, burning when peeing, or bleeding between periods (if you have a menstrual cycle).

Herpes Infections References

If you want to know more about Herpes Infections, consider exploring links below:

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