Herpes simplex viruses -- more commonly known as herpes -- are categorized into two types: herpes type 1 (HSV-1 or oral herpes) and herpes type 2 (HSV-2, or genital herpes). Most commonly, herpes type 1 causes sore around the mouth and lips (sometimes called fever blisters or cold sores). HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, but most cases of genital herpes are caused by herpes type 2. In HSV-2, the infected person may have sores around the genitals or rectum. Although HSV-2 sores may occur in other locations, these sores usually are found below the waist.

 A dermatologist often can diagnose herpes simplex by looking at the sores. To confirm that a patient has herpes simplex, a dermatologist may take a swab from a sore and send this swab to a laboratory. When sores are not present, other medical tests, such as blood tests, can find the herpes simplex virus.

Herpes simplex viruses spread from person to person through close contact. It can be affected from touching a herpes sore. Most people, however, get herpes simplex from an infected person who does not have sores. Doctors call this “asymptomatic viral shedding.” Children will often contract HSV-1 from early contact with an adult who has an infection. They then carry the virus with them for the rest of their lives.

Symptoms can be found similar to flu that includes:

• fever
• swollen lymph nodes
• headaches
• tiredness
• lack of appetite
• And also pimples or skin conditions

 HSV can also spread to the eyes, causing a condition called herpes keratitis. This can cause symptoms such as eye pain, discharge, and a gritty feeling in the eye.

It’s important to recognize that someone may not have visible sores or symptoms and still have an infection. They may also transmit the virus to others.

Some of the symptoms associated with this virus include:

• blistering sores (in the mouth or on the genitals)
• pain during urination (genital herpes)
• itching

There is no cure for herpes simplex.  Many people choose to treat herpes simplex because treatment can relieve symptoms. It can be treated with an antiviral medicine. An antiviral cream or ointment can relieve the burning, itching, or tingling. Antiviral medicine such as oral (pills) or intravenous (shot) can shorten an outbreak of herpes. The medication that is used to treat Herpes infection is: acyclovir, famciclovir, valacyclovir.

Although there is no cure for herpes, you can take measures to avoid contracting the virus, or to prevent transmitting HSV to another person.

If you’re experiencing an outbreak of HSV-1, consider taking a few preventive steps:

• Try to avoid direct physical contact with other people.
• Don’t share any items that can pass the virus around, such as silverware, clothing, makeup, or lip balm.
• Wash your hands thoroughly and apply medication with cotton swabs to reduce contact with sores.
• Women who are pregnant and have an infection may have to take medication to prevent the virus from infecting their unborn babies.

Thanks and Regards

Jessica

Managing Editor

Journal of HIV and Retrovirus

Email ID: Retrovirus@eurorendezvous.org