THE HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS
There are two types of herpes simplex virus: type 1 or HSV1, is widespread and usually causes oral herpes (‘cold sores’) Herpes type 2, or HSV2 nearly always causes genital or anal infections. However, both strains of the virus can live in either region.
Both types cause transient sores in the skin and can be very painful for the affected person.
Both types of herpes are highly contagious. Transmission is by direct contact between mucous membranes or skin. Once outside of the body, the virus dies quickly. However most of us have been exposed to the HSV1 virus at some point and up to one in three adults may have had cold sore symptoms. For genital herpes around one in six adults in Western countries may carry the virus.
For both types, after the initial virus infection, it remains latent in the body, reappearing at variable recurring intervals in the future. On average, cold sore sufferers experience 3 outbreaks annually.
Our information will help you whether you are unsure if you have a herpes infection or not, and whether you may have HSV1 (oral herpes) or HSV2 (genital herpes).
I think I may have HSV1 (Oral herpes)
I think I may have HSV2 (Genital herpes)