Herpes Simplex Virus Infections: Types, Symptoms, Treatment

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What is the herpes simplex virus?

The herpes simplex virus, also known as HSV, is a viral infection that causes genital and oral herpes. Many people live with asymptomatic HSV, which means they have the virus without ever having an outbreak or active episode of herpes. Others might experience occasional episodes of small, fluid-filled blisters or sores.

What type of virus causes herpes?

Herpes is a viral infection transmitted through skin contact. The two most common strains, herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2), cause oral herpes ( cold sores) and genital herpes infections.

What are the different types of herpes simplex virus?

There are two types of herpes simplex virus. Type 1 (HSV-1) mostly spreads by oral contact and causes infections in or around the mouth (oral herpes or cold sores). It can also cause genital herpes. Most adults are infected with HSV-1. Type 2 (HSV-2) spreads by sexual contact and causes genital herpes.

Can a herpes simplex virus cause a genital infection?

Herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2 cause lifelong oral and genital herpes infections. The virus is typically transmitted through skin-to-skin contact when lesions or blisters are present. It can also be transmitted without any symptoms. HSV can cause lesions and other symptoms in the mouth, genitals, or anal areas.

What Is Herpes Simplex Virus Infections

1. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/herpes-simplex-virus
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/herpes-simplex
3. https://www.health.vic.gov.au/infectious-diseases/herpes-simplex-infections
4. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22855-herpes-simplex
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herpes_simplex_virus
6. https://www.msdmanuals.com/en-au/home/infections/herpesvirus-infections/herpes-simplex-virus-hsv-infections
7. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/infectious-diseases/herpesviruses/herpes-simplex-virus-hsv-infections

Herpes Simplex Virus Infections Information

1. https://sti.guidelines.org.au/sexually-transmissible-infections/genital-herpes-simplex-virus-hsv/