What is the main risk in herpes?

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is a sexually transmitted infection which causes recurrent episodes of blistering on the skin and mucous membranes. This is not a fatal disease, but there is a risk of serious complications, including encephalitis (swelling of the brain) and meningitis (swelling of the fluid that surrounds the brain). It can also lead to serious complications in pregnant women, causing birth defects or even death of the fetus.