Herpes Simplex Virus
Herpes simplex (more often called herpes) is an STI caused by two viruses: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).
In the U.S., [11.9 % of adults (https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fstd%2Fherpes%2Fstdfact-herpes-detailed.htm) have HSV-2 infection. However, the prevalence of genital herpes infection is higher than that because an increasing number of genital herpes infections are caused by HSV-1. In the U.S., 48.1% of people have HSV-1 infection. (https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db304.pdf)
Types of Herpes
HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes, leading to cold sores or fever blisters on or around the mouth. HSV-2 can also cause cold sores if transmitted orally. Most people with oral herpes do not show symptoms and often contract it during childhood or young adulthood through non-sexual contact with saliva.
Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can also infect the genital area. HSV-1 can be transmitted through kissing, oral sex and penetrative sex depending on the area of transmission, while HSV-2 spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person.
Transmission of Herpes
Genital herpes is transmitted through contact with HSV in herpes lesions, mucosal surfaces, genital secretions, or oral secretions. It can be transmitted even when the infected partner does not have visible lesions and may be unaware of their infection. Herpes cannot be contracted from toilet seats, bedding, swimming pools, or touching objects like silverware, soap, or towels.
Symptoms of Herpes
Most individuals with genital herpes, whether due to HSV-1 or HSV-2, show no symptoms or very mild ones that are often overlooked or mistaken for other skin conditions. This means the virus can also lay dormant in the body with no signs it is there. When symptoms do occur, they typically include blisters on or around the genitals, rectum, or mouth, which may lead to painful ulcers.
Testing and Diagnosis
Healthcare providers can diagnose genital herpes by examining present sores, taking a sample from these sores for testing, or conducting a blood test to detect HSV antibodies when sores are not present. When sores are not present, HSV testing can be unreliable and lead to false-positives as well as false-negatives.
Herpes Prevention and Management
There is no cure for herpes, but antiviral medications (some including Acylcovir and Valacyclovir) can prevent or shorten outbreaks and reduce the risk of transmission to partners. Some anti-virals can even be taken daily as virus-suppression and reduces the rates of transmission. (https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/herpes.htm)
Correct and consistent use of latex condoms and dental dams can reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of transmitting or acquiring genital herpes. The surest way to avoid transmission of STIs, including oral and genital herpes, is to abstain from sexual contact, or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner.
Stigma and Impact
Patients diagnosed with herpes often experience embarrassment, shame, and stigma, which can significantly affect their relationships. Healthcare providers can help by ensuring patients understand that herpes, while incurable, is a manageable condition.
Complications
Genital herpes can cause severe and persistent ulcers, especially in individuals with suppressed immune systems, and can lead to serious complications such as aseptic meningitis in both HSV-1 and HSV-2 cases.
Understanding these comprehensive facts is vital for a well-rounded and empathetic approach to managing HSV, including its prevention, treatment, and reducing the stigma associated with it.
HSV can also increase the risk of contracting HIV if exposed to the virus by threefold. (https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/herpes.htm)
Resources
Updated Updated