Viruses are one of the simplest organisms that can self-replicate and can only infect living cells. Herpes simplex is also a type of virus, and its infections are common worldwide. This virus, popularly known as herpes, is briefly called HSV and there are two different types of herpes viruses. Herpes, which involves a course of treatment aimed at reducing the symptoms of the infection, can be treated with medications prescribed by the doctor. You can find the answers to all your questions on the subject, such as what is HSV, what causes it, is the herpes virus dangerous, etc. in the rest of the article.
What is Herpes Virus?
Herpes, also known as HSV, is a viral infection that causes cold sores in the genital area or around the mouth. Most people have this virus; However, some people may not show any symptoms. In those who show symptoms, fluid-filled blisters or sores may occasionally be observed. Since HSV, an infectious virus, does not survive for very long outside the body, transmission often occurs from an infected individual. HSV can be transmitted through direct contact with saliva or mucus of an infected person, blood or fluid leaking from a wound, or sexually. It is most commonly seen in moist areas such as the mouth, nose and vagina. Apart from this, it can also be observed in hands, fingers or other body parts, although rarely.
Herpes infection is quite common and lasts a lifetime once the virus is ingested. There are exacerbation periods when the infection is thought to be gone, without symptoms, and when its severity increases. During exacerbations, painful or itchy blisters and sores appear. Although the herpes virus does not generally cause a serious problem, people with weak immune systems, such as babies and cancer patients, should be careful. People infected with the herpes virus also need to be careful not to spread the virus to others. For this reason, infected people should be careful not to kiss or have sexual intercourse with anyone during the period when symptoms appear, or to inform healthcare professionals when applying to any healthcare institution.
Types of Herpes Virus
The answers to the questions “What is the herpes virus and what are its types” are among the most curious topics on the subject. Herpes is a lifelong infection that has recurring symptoms over the years. In some cases, treatment can be applied to reduce the frequency of these intermittent symptoms. This infection, which often heals without the need for any treatment, is annoying at first, but over time, most people get used to living with it. There are two different types of herpes virus, HSV type 1 and HSV type 2, which can be found in many parts of the body. HSV type 1 is transmitted from an infected individual through mouth-to-mouth contact and saliva. It mostly causes an infection in the mouth, around the mouth and face area. The infection seen around the mouth is called oral herpes. The names cold sores or fever blisters may also be used for oral herpes, popularly known as herpes. Type 1 can also cause infection in the genital area in some cases. Although rare, some complications may occur as a result of HSV infection. These complications vary depending on which type of virus it is. HSV type 1 infection can lead to complications such as infection in the brain tissue, i.e. encephalitis, and infection in the cornea of the eye, i.e. keratitis. HSV type 2 is often spread through sexual contact and generally affects the genitals. Although the herpes virus is divided into 2 types, either type can infect any skin area if it comes into contact with an area of skin. There is a relationship between HSV type 2 and HIV infection. HSV type 2 is one of the most common infections in individuals with HIV infection. Additionally, those infected with HSV type 2 infection have a 3-fold increased risk of contracting HIV infection . HSV infection may cause more frequent recurrences and severe symptoms in cases of decreased immunity, such as HIV. Although rare, some complications may occur as a result of HSV type 2. Meningoencephalitis (infection of the brain and meninges) is one of these complications.
How is the Herpes Virus Transmitted?
Herpes simplex is a highly contagious virus and can be encountered in people of all ages. The herpes virus, which can be transmitted even through skin-to-skin contact, can also be transmitted during anal, oral or vaginal sex, as it is especially common around the genitals or mouth. Apart from this, the risk of being infected with herpes virus increases in cases such as cuts, burns and rashes on the body. Most people get oral fly unknowingly during childhood. Similarly, an infected mother can transmit the virus to the baby in the vagina during birth. This is called neonatal herpes and is a rare condition, occurring in only 10 out of 10,000 births. Since it is easily and widely contagious, both infected and uninfected individuals should pay close attention to their hygiene. After contact with an infected person, hands should be washed directly without touching any part of the body. Otherwise, getting infected may become an inevitable result. Similarly, infected individuals must be careful not to infect. When herpes virus sores are open, they are most contagious. Because the liquid inside the blisters allows the virus to spread easily. HSV can live in a person’s body for years without showing symptoms in most people. For this reason, it is a little difficult to find out who has the virus or who caught it. Since the herpes virus requires a living creature to survive, it is not transmitted from inanimate surfaces such as toilet seats. In general, the risk of infection is higher in the following situations:
- Having more than one sex partner
- having unprotected sex
- Having any history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- A weakened immune system
Not using condoms for sexual intercourse and dental dams for oral sex
Herpes Virus Symptoms
Herpes virus is most commonly seen in and around the mouth or genital area. HSV seen in and around the mouth is mostly asymptomatic, meaning it does not cause symptoms. However, herpes, that is, painful sores and blisters, may occur in or around the mouth. Usually, before herpes appears, a tingling or burning sensation occurs around the mouth. Genital herpes may similarly not have any symptoms. Infections in general
- Blisters and wounds on the skin,
- Fire,
- Swelling in lymph nodes,
- It is characterized by pain throughout the body.
Recurrence of infection is seen in both types of herpes virus. However, recurrence of symptoms is more common in herpes type 2 than in herpes type 1. However, the frequency of recurrences gradually decreases after the first attack.
Herpes Virus Treatment
Although the herpes virus is easily transmitted to many people, the majority are asymptomatic. Blisters around the mouth usually heal on their own without the need for treatment; However, people with severe symptoms may experience a decrease in their quality of life and a course of treatment may be needed to improve this. It is not yet possible to get rid of the herpes virus completely. Although experts have not yet found a cure for the herpes virus, drug therapy may be recommended to reduce symptoms. Medicines can be in the form of pills, ointments or creams. Treatment uses an antiviral cream or ointment as soon as the infection begins to reduce symptoms. The use of oral medication prescribed by a doctor may be necessary, especially in people infected with the herpes type 2 virus. Although the herpes virus is intimidating with its easy transmission, it is not a virus that usually causes serious complications. However, accompanying symptoms such as itching and burning may decrease the person’s quality of life. If you suspect HSV for yourself or a relative, you can visit a health center for the most accurate information and get detailed information about the herpes virus and its treatment.
