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The symptoms of herpes simplex
vary. What symptoms you experience depends on whether it is the initial
outbreak or recurrent. The first herpes simplex outbreak is usually
worse than any of the following outbreaks. One thing that is important
to note is that many new cases the herpes simplex virus produce no symptoms
at all. As many as 25% of those infected may not be aware that they
have the herpes simplex virus. However, even if they have no symptoms,
they can still transmit the disease.
Most people get Type 1 infections
that include cold sores, during infancy or childhood. The sores may
be painful and unsightly. For chronically ill people and newborn babies,
the viral infection can be serious, but rarely fatal.
The herpes simplex virus
is usually infected by a close contact or family member. Kissing, sharing
eating utensils, or even sharing towels can spread the virus.
Type 2 herpes simplex infections
cause genital sores. You can get type 2 herpes simplex after having
sexual contact with an infected person. Nearly one fifth of all sexually
active adults in the United States have the herpes simplex virus. You
can get treatment for genital herpes. Just buy the products that are
listed at the top of this page.