Facts About the Herpes Virus

The two types of herpes simplex virus--herpes simplex 1 (HSV1) and herpes simplex 2 (HSV2)--are considered sexually transmitted diseases. HSV1 is usually found around the mouth and forms infectious cold sores or blisters that can spread as liquid releases from the blisters. HSV2 is the form of herpes found around the genital area.

Initial Signs

• People with the simplex 1 herpes virus often feel a tingling sensation prior to developing cold sores around the mouth. From that point on, the virus is contagious and can be passed to any other part of the body or to someone else. Simplex 2 usually shows as one or a group of blisters in the genital area, but some people show no signs at all.

Direct Contact

• Both forms of the herpes virus can only be passed to another individual by direct contact with the virus on the body. The virus cannot be passed through surfaces, material or soaps.

Population

• In the United States alone, more than 45 million people older than 12 have had the genital herpes infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The STD is more common among women than men. About one in every four women has the virus; for men, the figure is one of every eight.

Fatality

• Herpes is not usually fatal for children or adults, but it can be fatal to a newborn baby. If an expectant mother has genital herpes, a midwife or doctor should monitor the pregnancy. A cesarean section may be needed for safe delivery.

Time Frame

• Once a herpes sore appears, it can take up to a week before it clears, depending on the medication used. Sores can appear several times a year due to factors such as stress, sunlight exposure and drinking alcohol. Outbreaks generally lessen in number through time.

Treatment

• The herpes virus has no cure, but a doctor can prescribe antiviral medications to help treat symptoms. Antiviral medication comes in oral form or ointment and creams such as Famvir, Valtrex and Zovirax.