| Herpes affects a staggering number of people worldwide. Millions of people carry HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus}, the strain principally causing genital herpes. Most people do not even know they are carriers. One of the roadblocks to preventing herpes results from the lack of information about the virus.
Defining herpes
There is neither vaccine nor cure for herpes. The virus attacks the skin cells and multiplies there, finally triggering irritation, redness and sores. Once this outbreak stops, herpes virus travels from the nerve endings to the spinal cord, where it remains until another outbreak. In spite of this, it is possible to have a normal and happy life with herpes, including an active sex life and childbirth.
What does an outbreak look like?
Herpes lesions are small sores or blisters that happen singly or in groups. They range from mildly to extremely painful and cause an itching or burning feeling. Since it travels along nerve endings, herpes typically recurs nearby the site of initial transmission.
An outbreak lasts from a few days to several weeks. The first outbreak usually occurs within 2-21 days of infection. Severity and duration commonly decrease with recurrences, as soon as the body has developed a defence of antibodies. Unless sores become infected with bacteria, they typically do not leave scars.
Outbreaks can be accompanied by flu-like symptoms, including general uneasiness, bad headaches, fever, tiredness or swollen lymph nodes. Still, some people may have few or no symptoms, which explains why Herpes Simplex is so widespread. An outbreak can also occur within the vagina or on the cervix, testicles or scrotum, where it may not be easily seen or felt.
How is herpes transmitted?
The virus is usually transmitted where skin touches the virus at a sore location. It can also be contracted through saliva that has mixed with the virus or by touching a sore and then touching another skin area. An outbreak site might also shed virus when there are no symptoms or sores. Genital herpes is principally transmitted by close contact, like intimate touching or sex.
For more information on herpes, please visit antiherpes.net. |
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