Genital Herpes 

Herpes is a common disease in the United States caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2). The CDC estimates that about 776,000 people yearly in the United States get infected. HSV-1 is mainly transmitted by oral-to-oral contact to cause oral herpes (cold sores), but can also cause genital herpes from oral to genital contact. HSV-2 is almost exclusively transmitted sexually, causing infection in the genital or anal area. Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections are lifelong.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of genital herpes caused by HSV-1 and HSV -2 sometimes go unrecognized. Symptoms appear as 1 or more genital or anal blisters/ ulcers. initial genital herpes by HSV-1 may be severe but subsequent episodes are milder and does not recur frequently.

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2)

HSV-2 infection is almost exclusively sexually transmitted and is the main cause of genital herpes. Infection with HSV-2 increases the risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV infection.

Signs and Symptoms

Genital herpes infections may have mild or no symptom. When symptom occur, one or more blisters, ulcers or open sores appear around the genitals or anus. Mild tingling or shooting pain in the legs, hips, and buttocks may occur before the genital ulcers. In new onset of genital herpes infections may include fever, body aches, and/or swollen lymph nodes prior to the ulcer. Recurrent symptoms are often less severe and may decrease over time. 

Transmission/ Prevention

HSV-1 and 2 are particularly contagious during an outbreak but can also be transmitted when no symptoms are visible. Infected people should avoid oral and genital contact, and not share objects that have had contact with their saliva. They should also abstain from any unprotected sexual activity especially while experiencing any of the symptoms.

Treatment 

Effective medications recommended for treatment are Antiviral medications, such as Valacyclovir, Acyclovir, and Famciclovir. These medications can prevent or shorten outbreaks. Daily suppressive therapy can also reduce the likelihood of transmission to partners.