Types of Herpes Virus

Herpes viruses cause infectious illnesses, including chicken pox, oral herpes and genital herpes. Two kinds of herpes virus exist: herpes zoster and herpes simplex. The Epstein-Barr virus is also a herpes virus, one that causes "mono." Herpes viruses, like all viruses, are bits of genetic material that invade cells and use the cells to replicate, creating sickness.

Herpes Simplex

• Herpes simplex viruses come in two types, which are known as herpes simplex type 1 and herpes simplex type 2. Types 1 and 2 are abbreviated HSV-1 and HSV-2 respectively.

HSV-1

• Herpes simplex type 1 is responsible for most outbreaks of oral herpes, which people call cold sores or fever blisters. An outbreak of sores and blisters in the mouth or on the lips is a sign you have contracted the virus.

HSV-2

• Herpes simplex type 2 generally is responsible for genital herpes, a sexually transmitted disease. An outbreak causes blisters and sores on genitals or around the rectum, though many people don't realize they've contracted genital herpes because their symptoms are mild. HSV-1 can also be the source of a genital herpes infection.

Herpes Zostar

• Herpes zoster causes chicken pox and shingles. Once you have chicken pox, the virus stays in your body, dormant. Years later, it can reactivate as shingles. It may also reactivate in people with compromised immune systems. Shingles is not contagious.

Epstein-Barr Virus

• The Epstein-Barr virus can cause infectious mononucleosis, which is passed by contact with saliva. The illness usually lasts up to two months, though it can last longer, and causes sore throat, fever and swollen lymph glands.