7 Facts About Herpes

Herpes is one of the most dreaded viruses in the world, and for good reason. Even though a herpes infection is rarely life-threatening, it can lead to shame and put your loved ones at risk. However, the more you know about the virus, the better you’ll be able to avoid an infection – or manage one and still live a full life. Here are seven facts about herpes that can help to demystify this misunderstood disease.

There Are Two Main Types of Herpes Infections

The vast majority of herpes infections in humans are caused by two types of viruses: herpes simplex virus (HSV) 1 and 2. Also known as oral herpes, an HSV-1 infection will typically produce blisters known as cold sores around the mouth. Genital herpes is caused by an HSV-2 infection and will typically lead to blisters or lesions on or around the genital area.

Two Out of Three People Are Infected With Herpes

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that globally, around 67% of the human population is infected with HSV-1. The WHO also estimates that around 13% of people worldwide are infected with HSV-2. The virus spreads through close physical contact, which means some people are infected at birth.

There is No Cure For Herpes

Unfortunately, there is no cure for a herpes infection. Once you are infected with the virus, you are at risk of spreading it to others for the rest of your life. Given the prevalence of herpes and the lack of a cure, it’s important for anyone at risk of infection to get regularly tested for the virus.

You May Be Infected With Herpes and Not Know It

Unfortunately, it’s possible for herpes to infect someone without them ever knowing it. While a herpes infection will typically produce sores around the mouth or genital area, some infections are asymptomatic or cause only mild symptoms. This makes it easy for those infected with herpes to unintentionally spread the disease to others.  The only way to know if you have herpes is to get tested.

Herpes is Spread From Person-to-Person

Contrary to popular belief, herpes is spread through close physical contact with an infected person, not by touching objects they have also touched. Herpes cannot be spread through toilet seats, bedding, or other objects with which an infected person may come into contact.

One Herpes Outbreak (Usually) Leads to Another

Herpes outbreaks can be painful and embarrassing. Unfortunately, recurrent herpes outbreaks are common. Those infected with HSV-1 can expect another outbreak within a year after their first. Those with HSV-2 will typically experience four to five outbreaks within the first year.

Anyone Can Get Herpes

Herpes isn’t just a disease for the promiscuous. All it takes for you to suffer a herpes infection is one exposure to the virus.

The Importance of Herpes Testing

Given how easily herpes can spread and the lifelong consequences it can mean for those infected it’s important to get regularly tested for the disease. The more you know about your health status, the more confident you can be in your life decisions. With regular herpes testing, you’ll also not only protect yourself from the disease but also those you love.

Sources

• Herpes simplex virus – WHO
• Herpesviruses – Medical Microbiology – NCBI Bookshelf
• Herpes Signs and Symptoms – American Sexual Health Association