| Herpes viruses are the major cause of human viral disease, second only to influenza and cold viruses. They are capable of bringing on overt disease or remaining silent for many years. The name herpes comes from the Latin 'herpes' which, in turn, comes from the Greek word 'herpein' which means 'to creep'.
Herpes infects a staggering number of people worldwide. Millions of people carry HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus}, the strain mainly responsible for genital herpes. A lot of people do not even know they are infectious. The virus is believed to be difficult to prevent primarily due to the lack of information on it.
What is herpes?
There is neither vaccine nor cure for the herpes virus. The virus enters the skin cells and multiplies, eventually triggering irritation, redness and sores. As soon as this outbreak terminates, herpes virus travels from the nerve cells to the spinal cord, where it rests until recurrence, which occurs periodically. Yet, it is possible to live a normal life with the virus, including an active intimate life and childbirth.
What is an outbreak?
Herpes lesions are small sores or blisters that appear singly or in groups. They range from mildly to exceedingly painful and trigger an itching or burning feeling. Since it travels along nerve cells, the virus commonly re-appear nearby the site of initial transmission.
Outbreaks can last from a few days to a few weeks. The first outbreak usually happens within 2-21 days of contagion. Severity and duration normally diminish with recurrences, once the body has developed a defence of antibodies. Skin lesions do not normally leave scars, unless become infected with bacteria.
Outbreaks can be coupled with influenza-like symptoms: general uneasiness, headaches, muscle aches, fever, tiredness or enlarged lymph nodes. Still, some people experience few or no symptoms, which explains why herpes is so widespread. An outbreak can also happen within the genitals, where it may remain unnoticed.
If you requrie any information about herpes, please visit antiherpes.net. |
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