Herpes simplex is a skin infection that has a tendency to reoccur. There are two types. Type I causes a cold sore around the mouth and nose, and is also known as a fever blister. Type II causes cold sores on the genital and anus/rectal area, called genital herpes.

Caused by:
It is caused by a virus. Herpes simplex Type I (HSV-I) and herpes simplex Type II (HSV-2). Either type can infect the mouth or genitals.

Symptoms:
People infected with this virus may have a sensation of tingling, discomfort or itching on the area prior to the outbreak. Then, painful, blister-like sores appear on the skin or mucosal tissue. The first infection may be mild and occur in early childhood. It may involve a fever and malaise lasting a week. There may also be "flu-like" symptoms, swollen glands and headache.

Incubation:
It is usually 2 to 12 days from the time you come in contact with the virus until you break out with the sore.

Treatment:
Your doctor may prescribe an antiviral (Acyclovir) medication to help with the discomfort. There is no cure. Keep the sores clean and dry to avoid infection.

Communicable:
Eventually the virus becomes dormant in the nervous system. The virus may be shed from the site of the sore for years.

Transmitted by:
HSV-I (Herpes Simplex Virus - Type 1) may be found in saliva. As well, it can be transferred by hands from people shedding the virus.
HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus - Type 2) is transmitted sexually, and can be transmitted to newborns by the infected birth canal.

Complications:
Recurrences of the sores may decrease from an average of four a year initially to less as time goes by. Recurrences usually develop near the site of the original infection, but they can relocate. There are various triggers for the recurrences (sun, stress, fever or another illness).

Do not touch the sore during an outbreak. If you do, wash your hands with soap and water as soon as possible.

Some studies suggest that women with STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) including herpes, may be at a greater risk for cervical cancer. Regular Pap tests are recommended.

Other:
Care must be taken to avoid infecting an eczema occurrence with the herpes virus.
The virus remains dormant in the nerve ganglia. Further outbreaks may be caused by an illness with a fever, stress (both physical and emotional), or certain foods and drugs.

Prevention:
Hand washing is very important.
Avoid kissing anyone when you have an HSV-1 outbreak, or kissing someone who has an outbreak.
Avoid sexual intercourse and activities with persons who have genital sores.
Use latex condoms during intercourse.