Herpes (HSV): Everything You Need to Know About The World's 2nd Most Common STI

What is Herpes?

Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), with two primary types:

• HSV-1: Typically associated with oral herpes, resulting in cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth. However, it can also cause genital herpes through oral-genital contact.
• HSV-2: Primarily causes genital herpes, which affects the genital and anal areas but can also be transmitted to the mouth.

Herpes is highly contagious, spreading through skin-to-skin contact, including kissing, oral sex, vaginal sex, and anal sex. One of the challenging aspects of herpes is that it can be transmitted even when there are no visible symptoms, which complicates its management and prevention​ (HIV.gov).

Herpes in America Today

Herpes is incredibly prevalent in the United States. According to the CDC, approximately 48% of people aged 14-49 have HSV-1, and about 12% have HSV-2. Many people with herpes remain unaware of their infection due to the virus often being asymptomatic or causing only mild symptoms .

• Who’s Affected: Women are more likely to have HSV-2 than men, and Black/African Americans have higher rates of HSV-2 infection compared to other racial and ethnic groups.
• Transmission: Herpes is most often transmitted through direct contact with an infected area during an outbreak. However, it can also be spread when the virus is active on the skin but not causing symptoms (asymptomatic shedding) .

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Herpes symptoms can vary significantly among individuals. Some people experience severe outbreaks, while others may have mild symptoms or none at all. Common symptoms include:

• Blisters or Sores: These typically appear on the mouth, genitals, or anus. They can be painful and may take a few weeks to heal.
• Flu-like Symptoms: During the initial outbreak, some people may experience fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
• Recurring Outbreaks: After the first infection, the virus remains in the body and can reactivate, leading to recurrent outbreaks, though these tend to be milder and shorter over time.

Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination of the sores or blisters, or a laboratory test like a PCR test or viral culture .

Treatment and Management

Although there is no cure for herpes, several treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks:

• Antiviral Medications: Drugs like acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir can reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks and can also be taken daily to reduce the risk of transmission to others.
• Lifestyle Management: Stress, illness, and a weakened immune system can trigger outbreaks, so managing these factors can help control symptoms. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep are essential in keeping your immune system strong .

The Myths and Stigma Surrounding Herpes

Herpes carries significant stigma, largely due to misinformation and its portrayal in the media. This stigma can lead to anxiety and shame for those diagnosed, often more so than the physical symptoms themselves. It’s crucial to debunk these myths:

• Myth 1: Herpes is a rare or "dirty" disease. Fact: Herpes is incredibly common and can affect anyone, regardless of their sexual history or hygiene.
• Myth 2: You can only get herpes from someone who is having an outbreak. Fact: Herpes can be transmitted even when there are no visible symptoms.
• Myth 3: If you have herpes, your sex life is over. Fact: With proper management and communication with your partner, you can maintain a healthy and satisfying sex life .

Navigating Relationships with Herpes

If you’re living with herpes, having open and honest conversations with your partner is crucial. Here are some tips:

• Be Honest: Share your status with your partner before engaging in sexual activity. This builds trust and allows you both to make informed decisions about protection and management.
• Use Protection: Condoms and dental dams can reduce the risk of transmission, but they are not foolproof. Combined with antiviral therapy, they offer a good level of protection.
• Discuss Treatment: If both partners have herpes, discuss your treatment plans and manage symptoms together .

Wrap Up

Herpes is a common and manageable condition, but the stigma and misinformation surrounding it can make it seem much more daunting than it is. With the right knowledge, treatment, and open communication, individuals with herpes can lead healthy, fulfilling lives. If you think you might have herpes or have been diagnosed with it, talk to a healthcare provider about your options and support.

Sources:

• CDC: Genital Herpes - Detailed Information
• Mayo Clinic: Genital Herpes
• American Sexual Health Association: Herpes