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Herpes Simplex
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Sexual Health Issues

Herpes Simplex

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes recurring sores and blisters, with different types affecting the mouth, genitals, and other areas of the body.

Overview

Herpes is an infection that is caused by a herpes simplex virus (HSV). Oral herpes causes cold sores around the mouth or face. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects the genitals, buttocks, or anal area. Other herpes infections can affect the eyes, skin, or other parts of the body. The virus can be dangerous in newborn babies or in people with weak immune systems.

Types of HSV

There are two types of HSV:

  • HSV type 1 most commonly causes cold sores. It can also cause genital herpes.
  • HSV type 2 is the usual cause of genital herpes, but it also can infect the mouth.

Transmission & Management

HSV spreads through direct contact. Some people have no symptoms. Others get sores near the area where the virus has entered the body. They turn into blisters, become itchy and painful, and then heal.

Most people have outbreaks several times a year. Over time, you get them less often. Medicines to help your body fight the virus can help lessen symptoms and decrease outbreaks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a lifelong infection for which there is currently no cure. Once you contract the virus, it stays in your body, typically becoming dormant and reactivating periodically to cause outbreaks. While the virus cannot be eliminated, treatments are available to manage symptoms, reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks, and lower the risk of transmission.
Common triggers for herpes outbreaks include stress, illness (like a cold or flu), fatigue, fever, sun exposure, hormonal changes (such as during menstruation), and friction in the affected area. To manage outbreaks, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications. Lifestyle adjustments like stress reduction, getting adequate rest, and protecting skin from excessive sun exposure can also help reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
While the risk of transmission is highest during an active outbreak, it is still possible to transmit herpes even when no visible sores are present. This is known as asymptomatic shedding. Using condoms consistently and considering daily suppressive antiviral medication can help reduce this risk. Open communication with your partner about your herpes status is also crucial for making informed decisions together.
To reduce the risk of transmitting herpes, it's important to avoid sexual contact during an active outbreak (when you have sores or blisters). Consistent and correct use of condoms can help reduce the risk of transmission, but they don't cover all areas where the virus might be present. Daily suppressive antiviral medication can also significantly lower the risk of transmitting the virus to your partner, even when you don't have visible sores.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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