Herpes is spread through small openings in the skin, including sexual contact. Asymptomatic spread is common, and even with precautions, herpes can still be transmitted. Symptoms include painful lesions, itching, and flu-like symptoms. Other strains of the Herpesviridae virus can also cause shedding, including shingles and chickenpox.
The spread of herpes occurs when an infected person has small openings in the skin through which the virus can be spread. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is generally known as a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Therefore, sexual contact is one of the ways the virus can be spread. People become infected with the herpes virus when they are subjected to the broken skin areas that are exposing the virus. Genital herpes and oral herpes, as well as less common types of herpes, can be contracted through the spread of herpes.
About 90% of people infected with herpes do not know they have the virus. Asymptomatic spread of herpes occurs when the skin of an unknowingly infected person breaks down, thus spreading the virus. When no other symptoms are present, you may use less precautions when engaging in sexual activity. In these cases, the person can pass HSV on to their partner. It is important to note that even when condoms or other barriers are used, herpes infection can be spread.
Herpes shedding also occurs during an obvious rash. The most obvious symptom of a breakout is the presence of herpes lesions. These small blisters are red or pink in color. They are typically found in clusters around the genitals and anus. A bad breakout can consist of a mass of lesions spread over the area. In contrast, a mild herpes infection may only show one or two lesions. The lesions are typically filled with fluid and crusted after a few days.
Unmistakable pain can occur during the spread of herpes. Painful urination is a symptom that is often dismissed as a possible urinary tract infection. Additionally, herpes lesions or ulcers can be both painful and itchy, as can the skin around them. The actual shedding process probably doesn’t cause pain, however.
More rarely, headaches and stomach pains may occur during a breakout. If the lesions are not present, these herpes symptoms may be mistaken for a cold or the flu. Additionally, fatigue and general pain can accompany a breakout.
HSV-1 and HSV-2 are also known as oral and genital herpes, respectively. While they are the most commonly mentioned, they are not the only strains of the Herpesviridae virus that perform herpes shedding. Shingles, often known as shingles, is caused by the varicella zoster virus. This virus is also transmitted through the spread of herpes. Chickenpox is another common herpes strain that is spread through shedding, although it can also be transmitted by airborne or bodily fluids.
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