Genital Herpes Information

Genital herpes is an sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2). It is sometimes, though rarely, also caused by HSV-1, the virus that causes cold sores.

Transmission

• Genital herpes is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, either in the presence or absence of an outbreak. The virus must contact broken skin or, for instance, the eye, in order to trigger an infection.

Effects

• Genital herpes may cause sores on the genital area that clear up after a few weeks. The first outbreak normally occurs about two weeks after the virus is contracted, although most people are unaware that they have been infected because they experience no or mild symptoms. The number and severity of outbreaks generally decreases over time.

Prevalence

• One of out five American adolescents and adults has had at least one genital herpes outbreak.

Prevention

• Condoms should be used as a barrier against HSV-2 infection. However, the virus can also be transmitted through skin that is not covered by a barrier; additionally, people should not have sexual contact during an outbreak. There are a number of measures people living with herpes can take to protect others (see Resources).

Treatment

• Antiviral drugs can be used in the treatment of genital herpes to decrease the severity and number of outbreaks. Daily treatment may lower the risk of transmitting the virus to partners.