| Herpes viruses are the major cause of human viral disease after influenza and cold viruses. They are capable of triggering overt disease or remaining latent for many years. The term herpes derives from the Latin 'herpes' which, in turn, originates from the Greek word 'herpein' which denotes 'to creep'. This reflects the creeping or spreading nature of the skin lesions brought on by many herpes virus types.
Herpes affects a staggering number of people all over the world. Millions of people are carriers of HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus}, the strain principally responsible for genital herpes. Many people are unaware that they are carriers. The virus is believed to be hard to preclude mainly due to the lack of information on it.
Defining herpes
There is neither cure nor herpes vaccine. The virus penetrates into the skin cells and reproduces there, eventually bringing on skin irritation, redness and sores. After an outbreak, herpes travels from the nerve endings to the spinal cord, where it rests until another outbreak. In spite of this, it is possible to live a normal and happy life with the virus, including an active intimate life and childbirth.
What is an outbreak?
Herpes lesions are small-sized sores or blisters that happen separately or in groups. They range from mildly to extremely painful and itch, burn or feel like cuts. Because it travels along nerve ganglia, the virus normally re-appear close to the site of initial transmission.
Outbreaks last from a few days to a few weeks. The first outbreak commonly occurs within 2-21 days of infection. Severity and duration commonly diminish with recurrences, once the body has developed a defence of antibodies. Unless sores become infected with bacteria, they commonly do not scar.
Outbreaks can be coupled with flu-like symptoms: general malaise, headaches, muscle aches, tiredness or swollen lymph nodes. Yet, some people have few or no symptoms, which is one reason why herpes virus is so widespread. An outbreak can also happen within the genitalia, where it may remain unnoticed.
For more information on herpes virus, please visit antiherpes.net. |
