herpes

The definition of herpes is a highly-infectious virus called the herpes simplex virus which creates sores on the body.

Facts About Herpes

• Herpes 1 (HSV-1) is called oral herpes because visible symptoms appear as cold sores on the mouth or face. It is the most common form of herpes.

• Herpes 2 (HSV-2) is called genital herpes because it causes sores in the genital area and on the thighs.
• Once a person has been infected with the herpes simplex virus, it stays in the body forever. At the present time, there is no cure for herpes.
• The number of outbreaks for both types tends to decrease over time, so the longer you have it, the fewer number of recurrences.
• Infection occurs from direct contact with an infected person.
• HSV-2 (genital) recurs more frequently than HSV-1 (oral), HSV-1 (genital), and HSV-2 (oral).
• Many people with oral herpes (HSV-1) get it when they are children and by the time they are adults, it is so mild that they don’t consider it a health problem.
• Most people get genital herpes as teens or adults and in the first year will have between four and six outbreaks.