What you need to know

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)– direct cause for genital herpes and cold sores

• Most people unaware they are infected.
• Symptoms: small and painful ulcers (burning sensation), painful urination, or have no symptoms
• Types
  • Statistics- HSV infects about 1 out of 6 Americans between ages 14 and 49 years old.
  • 50‐80% of people are infected with HSV‐1– considered oral herpes
  • 12% of people are infected with HSV‐2– considered genital herpes
    • Note: Either virus can infect any mucous membrane, regardless of body location
• Transmitted through contact with herpetic lesions, mucosal surfaces, or genital/oral secretions.
  • Condom and dental dam use reduces transmission.
• Testing: Culture swab of the ulcer, or test blood for antibodies
• Treatment: There is no cure. Virus becomes dormant, many people have repeated outbreaks
  • Antivirals can suppress and shorten outbreaks
    • Effective at preventing transmission to partner*

Cleveland Clinic- Herpes Simplex Virus

Resources

Refer to the Birth Control and Contraception page for testing and treatment services and resources.* Refer to the Sexually Transmitted Infection page for STI information and contraception use.