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Herpes Simplex
What is herpes and how is it spread?
Herpes simplex is a viral infection. There are two different types: HSV-1 (oral) and HSV-2 (genital). Both types can be spread by direct contact with herpes sores on the skin of the infected person. Herpes can be spread at any time, but is most contagious when there is a sore present or right before an outbreak. A person with a cold sore on his or her mouth can pass herpes to the genitals of another person during oral sex. A mother with a genital herpes outbreak during delivery can pass the virus to her newborn.
How can I prevent it?
- HSV-1 (oral herpes) can be spread by kissing if you or your partner is having an outbreak. It can also be spread through oral sex when there is an outbreak present. By not kissing or having oral sex during outbreaks, you can help protect yourself from the virus.
- HSV-2 (genital herpes) can be transmitted with direct contact with herpes sores. Condoms or dental dams can provide some protection against herpes.
How can I get tested?
Your provider can do an exam and a culture (if you have an open sore) to determine the type of herpes. There are blood tests available, but they may be misleading. It is important to discuss testing with your provider.
What are the symptoms?
Herpes outbreaks generally start as small, clear, fluid-filled blisters that sometimes itch and cause discomfort. The blisters may break to form painful sores. The first outbreak may also result in fever, irritability, fatigue, swollen glands in the groin and/or painful urination. There is often a sensation of numbness or tingling present in the area just prior to an outbreak.
What is the treatment?
Even when sores go away, the herpes virus will still be in your body and can cause another outbreak anytime. However, there are several things that can help keep you from having another outbreak. There are some prescriptions medications that can help keep the virus from causing an outbreak. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle to keep your immune system working well is also important. Avoid eating chocolate, gelatin, nuts and cola, which can trigger an outbreak.
What could happen if it is left untreated?
Recurrent outbreaks of herpes can result if you do not seek treatment.
How common is it?
Nationwide, at least 45 million people ages 12 and older, or one out of five adolescents and adults, have had genital HSV infection. Over the past decade, the percent of Americans with genital herpes infection in the U.S. has decreased.
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