infections
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infections
Introduction
Herpes simplex virus infection causes recurring episodes of small, painful, fluid-filled blisters on the skin, mouth, lips (cold sores), eyes, or genitals. This very contagious Overview of Viral Infections is spread by direct contact with sores or sometimes contact with an affected area when no sores are present. Herpes causes blisters or sores in the mouth or on the Genital Herpes and, often with the first infection, a fever and general feeling of illness. The virus sometimes infects other parts of the body, including the eyes and brain. Usually, doctors easily recognize the sores caused by herpes, but sometimes analysis of material from a sore or blood tests are necessary. No medication can get rid of the virus, but Antiviral drugs can help relieve symptoms and help symptoms resolve a little sooner. Herpes simplex is one of several types of Overview of Herpesvirus Infections . There are two types of herpes simplex virus (HSV): HSV-1, which is the usual cause of cold sores on the lips (herpes labialis) and sores on the cornea of the eye ( Herpes Simplex Keratitis ) HSV-2, which is the usual cause of Genital Herpes None Infection can also occur in other parts of the body such as the brain (a serious illness) or gastrointestinal tract. Widespread infection may occur in newborns or in people with a weakened Overview of the Immune System , particularly those who have HSV is very contagious and can be spread by direct contact with sores and sometimes by contact with the mouth (oral area) or genitals of people who have HSV infection even when no sores are can be seen. 