What is Herpes?

Herpes is a contagious and very common disease caused by the herpes simplex (HSV) virus. There are two types of HSV. While HSV type-1 usually causes infection above waist level (lips, mouth, head and neck infection), HSV type-2 causes infection in the genital area.

What are the symptoms of herpes?

Herpes is characterized by redness and fluid-filled blisters (vesicles), which usually appear in groups on the affected area. Before the skin rash begins, complaints such as itching and burning may be observed in the affected area.

How is herpes transmitted?

Herpes simplex viruses are transmitted from person to person through close contact. However, most people get herpes simplex from an infected person who does not have sores. This situation is called “asymptomatic viral transmission”. While oral (mouth and lip) herpes infection is generally transmitted through the saliva of the sick person or by contact with the infected area, gential herpes (HSV-2) is transmitted sexually.

Does Herpes Reoccur?

Herpes simplex viruses continue to remain in the nerves in a latent state after the disease occurs. After external factors, viruses come to the skin and mucosa areas again and cause the disease. While herpes in the head and neck area generally recurs after contact with fire and sunlight, herpes in the genital area can recur after sexual intercourse, menstruation and stress.