Genital herpes / HSV

HSV-1 and HSV-2 are viruses that remain in the body. Both can cause genital herpes.

Through close contact with infected skin or mucous membranes, including oral sex. Transmission is possible without visible blisters.

It is not acquired through ordinary toilet or swimming pool use, or shared utensils.

The first episode can go unnoticed. The virus then remains latent in nerve cells and sometimes reactivates.

An early symptomatic episode may start days after exposure, but the first recognised outbreak can be much later. It does not date the infection.

Seek examination promptly for a fresh lesion. If type-specific antibodies are medically indicated after recent exposure, repeat testing at around 12 weeks may be needed.

Painful blisters/ulcers, burning, itching and pain when urinating. The first episode sometimes includes fever.

Yes. Mild symptoms can go unrecognised; absence of lesions does not rule out viral shedding.

The mouth, genitals and perianal area; proctitis is possible. Genital HSV-1 generally recurs less often than HSV-2.

NAAT/PCR from a lesion with virus typing. Routine antibody screening of everyone is not recommended.

A swab from a fresh blister/ulcer. Blood testing for type-specific antibodies is considered in selected situations; HSV IgM is not recommended.

The type and symptoms should be discussed. Some low-positive antibody results are false positives and need confirmation.

Antiviral medicines shorten episodes or are taken as suppressive treatment when indicated. They do not completely remove the virus.

A recurrence is usually reactivation, not a new infection. Infection with the other HSV type is possible.

A conversation helps establish a shared plan. Avoid sex during lesions or warning symptoms such as burning; suppressive treatment and condoms can reduce the risk.

Barriers and avoiding contact during active symptoms reduce the risk but do not eliminate it completely.

Seek prompt medical care for a first episode, inability to urinate, eye symptoms or new lesions during pregnancy.

If you develop a new sore, seek examination while a reliable sample can still be collected. Confirm test availability beforehand.