Basics of the Herpes Simplex Virus

Herpes Simplex Virus, or more simply, herpes has two strains: HSV-1 and HSV-2 which affect the mouth area and genital areas of men and women. The type 1 virus is responsible for oral herpes, and type 2 is the kind which affects the genitals.

Oral herpes symptoms can be seen as sores or lesions on the lips and mouth. Other symptoms such as swollen gums, fever and even flu-like symptoms can be experienced. Difficulty eating can often be a result of the swelling and sometimes a white film or coating will develop over the tongue.

HSV-1 is commonly found in children. How can this be the case? It often starts by a child catching the virus from a parent, but then more commonly it is spread among other children due to their close contact when at school. Because symptoms often come and go, and herpes is not commonly thought of as being a possibility in children, many parents don’t consider that the blisters and sores on their child might be due to herpes.

HSV-2, genital herpes, carries similar symptoms to HSV-1 however these occur around the genital area. The blisters are highly contagious so sexual activities when an outbreak is present is a high risk engagement.

Another thing to be careful of is becoming pregnant while having the herpes virus. There are precautions that must be taken to ensure the best chance of the baby being born without complications. Speak to your doctor for advice on this topic.

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