| Herpes viruses are the major cause of human viral disease after flu and cold viruses. They can bring on either overt disease or remain latent for many years.
There are, at least, 25 viruses in the family Herpesviridae (presently divided into 3 sub-families). Eight or more herpes types are known to infect man frequently.
Herpes infects a stupefying number of people in the world. Millions of people carry HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus}, the strain primarily responsible for genital herpes. Most people do not even know they are carriers. One of the roadblocks to preventing herpes results from the lack of information on the virus.
Defining herpes
Herpes is a virus with no vaccine and no cure. The virus attacks the skin cells and multiplies there, eventually triggering irritation, redness and sores. As soon as this outbreak subsides, herpes virus travels from the nerve cells to the spinal cord, where it rests until recurrence, which occurs periodically. Still, it is possible to live a normal and happy life with the virus, including an active sex life and childbirth.
What does an outbreak look like?
Herpes lesions are small sores or blisters that happen separately or in groups. They range from mildly to exceedingly painful and itch, burn or feel like cuts. The lesions look like red, white or gray blisters or open sores. As it travels through nerve endings, herpes usually recurs near the site of initial transmission.
Outbreaks can last from a few days to several weeks. The first outbreak commonly happens within 2-21 days of infection. Severity and duration normally decrease with recurrences, once the body has developed a defence of antibodies. Unless sores become infected with bacteria, they commonly do not scar.
Outbreaks can be accompanied by flu-like symptoms: general uneasiness, bad headaches, muscle aches, fever, tiredness or swollen lymph nodes. Yet, many people may have few or no symptoms, which is one reason why HSV-2 is so widespread. An outbreak can also appear within the genitals, where it may not be easily seen or felt.
If you requrie any information about herpes, please visit antiherpes.net. |
