What is Herpes?

Herpes is a very common and highly contagious infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and it is spread through direct contact with the affected area or fluid. Herpes can cause several different types of infections including cold sores, genital herpes and shingles. Herpes is a lifelong infection, so it is important to understand its causes and learn how to manage it.

What Causes Herpes?

Herpes is caused by two strains of the herpes simplex virus. These two herpes simplex viruses are identified as HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 is primarily responsible for oral infections, such as cold sores, whereas HSV-2 is primarily responsible for genital infections.

There are several ways in which herpes is spread. The most common way is through contact with an infected person. A person can acquire herpes through close contact with someone who is infected or through contact with an object that is contaminated with the virus. Herpes is spread through direct contact such as skin-to-skin contact or oral contact, including kissing. It can also be spread through contact with contaminated objects such as towels, razors or sex toys. Herpes is also highly contagious during childbirth.

HSV-1 is most commonly transmitted through oral contact such as kissing, while HSV-2 is typically transmitted through sexual contact. Both types of herpes can be transmitted through any type of direct contact between an infected and uninfected person, meaning any kind of skin-to-skin contact. It’s important to note that HSV-2 is highly contagious even when there are no visible signs or symptoms.

How to Prevent Herpes Infection?

The best way to prevent a herpes infection is to practice safer sex including the use of condoms. If you have genital herpes, it is important to avoid sexual contact until the sores are completely healed and the virus is no longer contagious.

It is also important to practice good hygiene and keep the infected area clean and dry, as this can help reduce the risk of infection. If you know that you are infected with herpes, it is important to avoid kissing, sharing eating utensils and touching any other objects that could be shared with someone else.

It is also important to avoid contact with herpes sores until they have completely healed and to avoid sharing any items that may have come into contact with the affected area.

Conclusion

Herpes is a highly contagious infection that is most often caused by the herpes simplex virus. It can be spread through direct contact with affected skin or through contact with contaminated objects and can cause oral or genital infections. It is important to understand the causes of herpes and to take measures to prevent it, such as practicing safer sex and good hygiene. If you suspect that you may have herpes, it is important to seek medical attention to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.