Herpes is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). There are two types; HSV-1 and HSV-2. Both can cause genital herpes, coldsores on the mouth, or whitlows on hands/fingers.
Once infected with Herpes it stays in the body for life, sometimes lying dormant in nerve cells in between outbreaks.
Transmission: Through skin to skin contact during vaginal, anal or oral sex without condoms, or through sharing sex toys. It can also be passed from mother to baby
Transmission is more likely when there are blisters present, but it can still occur without blisters being present especially just before, or soon after a break out.
Symptoms: Blisters are the main symptoms of herpes, and can appear on various parts of the body (anus, mouth, vagina, penis, throat, thighs).
Some people may not get blisters, or may just get them once. Sometimes they can come and go during different outbreaks/reactivation of the virus.
Other symptoms may include tiredness, flu-like symptoms or swollen glands.
Testing: Blood tests for Herpes are not routinely used.
Clinics will usually test samples from blisters, or just treat symptoms as they arise.
Treatment: Antiviral medication may manage symptoms and shorten outbreaks.
Suppressive treatment may be given to people who experience regular outbreaks e.g. more than 6 in one year.