Herpes (HSV)

Who does herpes affect?

There are two types of the virus: Type 1 mostly causes oral herpes, whereas type 2 usually causes genital herpes. However, both types can cause infections on any other part of the body. 

Around 70% of the population have HSV 1 and 20% have HSV 2. Cis women are more commonly affected by type 2 than cis men.

How is herpes transmitted?

Herpes viruses are mostly transmitted via the highly contagious fluid from the sores. 

The human mucous membrane is permeable to the virus. Herpes can be transmitted through kissing, coughing, sneezing, and even from sharing a glass.

How can I protect myself?

Avoiding touching the sores/ulcers and their fluids reduces the risk of infection. Regular hand-washing also helps in cases when someone in your proximity (e.g. in the same household) is experiencing herpes symptoms. However, transmission is also possible when no sores are visible.

What symptoms can appear?

Various factors cantors that can trigger an outbreak, such as fever, emotional stress, sunlight, or a weakened immune system.

Symptoms include itchy, burning, painful sores and ulcers, mostly in the mouth, on the lips, in the genital and anal regions, and occasionally on other parts of the body.

How do they test for herpes?

A medical professional can identify herpes with a visual diagnosis. Sometimes it is also a good idea to take a swab sample for closer examination.

How is herpes treated?

Herpes is incurable. Once you have been infected with herpes, it will lie dormant in your body for the rest of your life, but may trigger symptoms at any time. 

Antiviral ointments and medications are available to treat the symptoms. The sooner they are used in the event of an outbreak, the more effective they will be.