The Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a virus that causes cold sores and genital herpes in humans. It is also sometimes referred to as human herpes virus. There are two types of the herpes simplex virus found in humans. Herpes Simplex 1 or HSV-1 is the virus that is responsible for causing cold sores. This is also known as oral herpes. The Herpes Simplex Virus 2 HSV-2 is the virus that is most responsible for genital herpes. Although HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, the majority of cases are cased by the HSV-2 virus.
More About Herpes Simplex Virus
The HSV-1 virus is transferred between individuals by oral contact with an open herpes sore. This can occur through direct contact with the sore, such as kissing, or can occur through the sharing of objects like toothbrushes and water bottles. Generally, the HSV-2 virus is only transferred between individuals during sexual contact. It is important to note that the virus can be transferred even when sores are not apparent. Symptoms of the Herpes Simplex Virus include blisters or multiple blisters usually in the oral or genital regions. The blisters eventually break open and leaves sore, tender skin exposed. The virus can be dormant in some individuals for extended periods of time between breakouts.
