How soon can you get symptoms after getting herpes?

Herpes symptoms can appear within 2 to 10 days after exposure to the herpes simplex virus (HSV). However, it is important to note that not all individuals who are exposed to HSV will develop symptoms. Some people may experience a primary infection, which is the first time the body encounters the virus, while others may have a recurrent infection. The symptoms of a primary infection can be more severe and may include fever, swollen lymph nodes, body aches, and painful blisters on the skin or genitals. Recurrent infections are usually milder and may only cause a few blisters. The time frame for symptom onset can vary from person to person.