Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) has two different strains: herpes simplex virus 1 and herpes simplex virus 2. Both versions of the virus cause lesions and blisters near mucosal surfaces of the mouth, lips and/or genitalia.

While HSV-1 is more often associated with cold sores, and HSV-2 with genital herpes, either version of the virus can cause symptoms in any mucosal location.

More than 40 million Americans have one or both viruses, often without symptoms.

HSV-2

Accroding to the CDC, 16% of the population is infected with HSV-2.

Women are more likely than men to be infected. This is because the virus is more easily transmitted from men to women than from women to men. 1 in 4 women have genital herpes, compared to 1 in 8 men.

HSV-1

Between 15-30% of the entire population has HSV-1, the highest incidence occurring between the ages of 6 months and three years. By the 4th decade of life, over 60% of Americans have HSV-1.

Herpetic lesions

Before an outbreak, a person may notice tingling, burning or itching of the affected area. Usually begin as a cluster of small bumps, then blisters, followed by open sores or ulcers. The lesions can be painful and itchy and make the area tender and inflamed. Skin outbreaks can be accompanied with other symptoms including fever, fatigue and headache.

Outbreaks last 7-10 days on average.

There is no cure for either version of HSV. Symptoms can be managed with a variety of medications, including Progenn, which is used for the treatment of herpetic lesions.

If you think you might have herpes, you should visit a health care professional to get tested and diagnosed. There is no known cure for herpes.

For more resources on herpes, visit:

FAQs on Herpes

How is herpes spread?

Herpes is spread through skin to skin contact. An infected person can still spread the disease even when there are no symptoms/lesions present.

What does herpes look like?

Most people infected with herpes are not aware of the infection. Most commonly, there are no physical symptoms indicating infection.

However, if symptoms do occur, they can be painful and debilitating. The first outbreak usually occurs within two weeks of the virus being transmitted. Sores begin with a tingling, burning or itching of the affected area. A cluster of small bumps forms, then blister, followed by open sores that take two to four weeks to heal.

If the symptoms are mild, they are often mistaken for bug bites, ingrown hairs or other skin conditions, adding to the under-diagnosis of the condition.

How do you treat herpes?

Any treatment for herpes should be under the supervision of a medical professional. There are currently anti-viral suppressive prescription products available. Progenn^® is a natural herpes treatment used for symptomatic relief. This alternative herpes treatment is safe and can be used in conjunction with other medicines.