There are two types of herpes simples viruses (HSV). HSV type 2 is the one that most commonly causes genital herpes. The infection causes painful sores on the genitals in both men and women. HSV type 1 is the herpes virus that is usually responsible for cold sores of the mouth. However, HSV type 1 can cause genital herpes, and HSV type 2 can cause cold sores. Studies show that genital herpes is common. In the United States, one out of five of the total adolescent and adult population are infected with Herpes Simplex Virus.
Currently, there is no cure or vaccine for herpes infections. Once HSV enters the body, it is a lifelong resident that is capable of causing recurrent attacks. Emotional stress, fatigue, excessive exposure to sun or wind, skin friction, menstruation, and physical trauma have all been implicated as possible triggers of recurrent episodes. But how the dormant virus is reactivated and just what triggers this process is still unclear. For years no effective drug therapy for herpes infections was available, and patients simply had to wait for episodes to resolve naturally. At least three medications are now available for treatment of herpes infections. They are acyclovir, valyclovir, and famcyclovir. All three agents are very effective. Typically, these drugs are prescribed during active outbreaks, and may not be needed for mild cases. Long-term drug therapy (suppressive treatment) may be helpful for individuals who suffer frequent recurrent outbreaks. Suppressive treatment will reduce outbreaks by 85 percent and reduces viral shedding by more than 90 percent. Topical antibiotic ointments also may be applied to prevent secondary bacterial infections.