Herpes Simplex Virus Infections

Herpes simplex virus infections, commonly known as herpes, is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). The term herpes is derived from the Greek word “to creep or crawl” in reference to the spreading nature of herpetic skin lesions in the form of small, painful blisters which usually turn into open sores. It affects a majority of the population one or more times during their lifetime but most people have asymptomatic herpes infection and only some develop symptoms.

There are two main types of HSV – HSV type 1 (HSV-1)  and HSV type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 usually causes oral herpes which mainly affects the mouth and the surrounding areas whereas HSV-2 mostly causes genital herpes which mainly affects the genitals.

The virus can spread by close contact, sexual intercouse as well as from mother to baby during birth is the mother is infected. It is seen that women are known to be at a higher risk of suffering from HSV infections as compared to men.

Diagnosis of HSV infection is usually made by examination of skin blisters. Detection of Herpes simplex virus antibodies can also aid in diagnosis. Most herpetic infections resolve themselves without any treatment. Treatment, if required, typically consists of antivirals that can help in the management of herpes flare ups and prevent recurrence of the infection.