Key Facts About Herpes Simplex Infection

1. Herpes simplex virus, or herpes , is categorized into 2 types: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).
2. HSV-1 is mainly transmitted by oral-to-oral contact to cause oral herpes (which can include symptoms known as “cold sores”), but can also cause genital herpes.
3. HSV-2 is a sexually transmitted infection that causes genital herpes.
4. HSV-2 is mainly transmitted during sex, through contact with genital surfaces, skin, sores or fluids of someone infected with the virus, from a mother to her infant during delivery.
5. HSV-2 can be transmitted from skin in the genital or anal area that looks normal and is often transmitted in the absence of symptoms.
6. Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections are life-long.
7. As per WHO survey an estimated 3.7 billion people under age 50 (67%) have HSV-1 infection globally.
8. An estimated 417 million people aged 15-49 (11%) worldwide have HSV-2 infection.
9. People are more at risk when they participate in risky sexual behavior without the use of protection, such as condoms or having multiple sex partners.
10. Symptoms of herpes include painful blisters or ulcers at the site of infection.
11. Herpes infections are most contagious when symptoms are present but can still be transmitted to others in the absence of symptoms.
12. Infection with HSV-2 increases the risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV infection.
13. In immuno-compromised people, such as those with advanced HIV infection, HSV-1 can have more severe symptoms and more frequent recurrences.

1. Symptoms of oral herpes include painful blisters or open sores called ulcers in or around the mouth. Sores on the lips are commonly referred to as “cold sores.” Infected persons will often experience itching or burning sensation around their mouth, before the appearance of sores.
2. After initial infection, the blisters or ulcers can periodically recur. The frequency of recurrences varies from person to person.
3. Genital herpes is characterized by one or more genital or anal blisters or open sores called ulcers. In addition to genital ulcers, symptoms of new genital herpes infections often include fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
4. Blood test for antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2 is the diagnostic for herpes simplex infection.
5. Antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir, are medications available in conventional mode of treatment for people infected with HSV. These can help to reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms, but cannot cure the infection.
6. Homeopathy is strongly recommended in herpes simplex infection. When homeopathic medicines are given internally it helps to boost the immune system of the person and helps to stop the recurrence of infection. Homeopathic treatment is free from any side effects.

If you are suffering with recurrent herpes infection we have the answer for your suffering. Get in touch with us to know more about the most gentle and safe mode of treatment.

Dr Aparna Hingmire,  Associate doctor to Dr Rajesh Shah, Life Force Team