Genital Herpes Blog

What is herpes?

Herpes is a viral disease also known as Herpes Simplex. It is caused by viruses called herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2). Disorders based on the infection with herpes depend on the site of infection. The most common form of infection is oral herpes. The visible symptoms of oral herpes are colloquially called cold sores which affect the face and mouth. The second most common form of herpes is infection of the genitals, or genital herpes which is commonly knows as the herp. Other disorders such as ocular herpes (keratitis), herpetic whitlow, herpes gladiatorum, neonatal herpes, Mollaret’s meningitis, cerebral herpes infection encephalitis and possibly Bell’s palsy are all caused by herpes simplex viruses.

How long does it take?

Herpes viruses have two periods which they cycle between. The first period is called active disease—presenting as blisters containing infectious virus particles—that last 2–21 days. The second period is a remission period, when the sores disappear. Genital herpes, however, is often asymptomatic, although viral shedding may still occur. After first infection, the viruses move to sensory nerves, where they reside as life-long, latent viruses. Scientist don’t know what causes recurrence, though some potential triggers have been identified. Active disease’s frequency is reducing over time.

How does it transmit?

Herpes simplex is most easily transmitted by direct contact with a lesion or the body fluid of an infected individual. Transmission may also occur through skin-to-skin contact during periods of asymptomatic shedding. The most reliable but not failsafe  methods of preventng the transmission of herpes are the barrier protection methods. Unlike oral herpes which is easily diagnosed if the patient has visible sores or ulcers, early stages genital herpes are harder to diagnose - it usually requires laboratory testing.  Reasons for HSV infections varies in different countries. Overcrowding, poor hygiene, lower socioeconomic status, and birth in an undeveloped country have been identified as risk factors associated with increased HSV-1 childhood infection.
 

Is there a cure?

There is currently no cure for herpes and no vaccine is currently available to prevent or eliminate herpes. But there are several treatments available to prevent the virus from entering the skin, reduce viral reproduction and shedding, and alleviate the severity of symptomatic episodes.