Herpes simplex virus (HSV) includes two viruses that cause genital herpes or cold sores. Both types are transmitted through skin-to-skin contact and are incurable, but medication can reduce outbreaks. HSV can be transmitted even when there are no symptoms, and precautions should be taken to prevent transmission. A vaccine is being developed to prevent infection.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) comprises two related viruses and both belong to the group of herpes viruses, which is much larger. Other herpes viruses include those that cause disease such as chicken pox. Typically, the herpes simplex virus evokes pictures of genital herpes or recurring sores, and the causes of these can be HSV II or I.
Some people infected with the herpes simplex virus may have both viruses, while others have only one. HSV II is more commonly associated with the recurring development of blisters or sores on the genitals, while HSV I is more often thought to be the cause of cold sores. It is actually possible to get HSV I on the genitals and HSV II on the mouth, as both viruses are transmitted by skin-to-skin contact. The most common presentation is for the sores to occur on the genitals (HSV II) or on or around the mouth (HSV I).
Both types of herpes simplex virus share a common trait. They are not curable and never leave the body. This means that outbreaks can occur repeatedly and at any time. Some medications, such as acyclovir, can help reduce the number of outbreaks. Some people also find things like minimizing stress, getting plenty of rest, and eating a healthy diet to help prevent outbreaks. There are people with one or both forms of HSV who have very few outbreaks and others suffer from it on a regular basis. In the epidemic stage, the herpes simplex virus is extremely contagious.
For many years, HSV was thought to be contagious only during the few days before an outbreak, or during an outbreak itself. This is not considered true at the moment. Apparently, some people can clear the disease at any time, whether or not they have an active infection. Again, using medications like acyclovir can help minimize the chances of passing this virus on to others, even if it doesn’t when an outbreak is present. It’s also wise to take ordinary precautions like using condoms to prevent sexual transmission.
There are many people infected with the herpes simplex virus, with HSV type I occurring most often. Given the high rate of infection, some people may not treat this disease as seriously as they should. It is associated with a few complications, including challenges with vaginal delivery and possible transmission to babies as they are born. Both types of HSV are worth preventing because it is a lifelong disease and sometimes has painful and/or uncomfortable symptoms, with some potential for complications. There is hope that a vaccine will be developed so people avoid getting the virus. Initial studies of an HIV II vaccine for women look promising, and it is hoped that other researchers will follow up on the development of effective vaccines for women and men, for both viruses.
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