Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) affect millions of people worldwide. Among the most common STIs, herpes simplex virus (HSV) is particularly widespread, with billions of people living with either HSV-1 or HSV-2. Despite its prevalence, there's often confusion about what herpes is, how it spreads and the differences between its two types. Let's break down what you need to know about HSV.
The Basics: HSV-1 vs. HSV-2
Generally, a herpes simplex infection happens when the virus enters your body through the skin and mucous membranes, and the virus uses your cells to make copies of itself. Once you become infected with HSV, the virus stays in your body for life. It may be inactive (dormant) for a period before causing outbreaks. Many people may not have any symptoms despite being infected. Others get sores near the area where the virus has entered the body. These sores turn into blisters, become itchy and painful, and then heal.
Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 are viral infections that stay with you for life, but they have some key differences.
HSV-1 (oral herpes):
- Most commonly causes cold sores around the mouth
- Can also cause genital herpes
- Usually spreads through oral contact (e.g., kissing, sharing utensils)
- Affects about 64% of people globally
- Is associated with less frequent outbreaks when causing genital infection
HSV-2 (genital herpes):
- Primarily affects the genital area
- Mainly spreads through sexual contact
- Affects about 13% of people worldwide
- Is associated with more frequent recurrences of genital outbreaks
Understanding HSV symptoms
While many people with HSV may not show symptoms or have mild symptoms, others might experience:
- Painful blisters or sores (around mouth, genitals or rectum)
- Fever
- Body aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Headaches
- Sore throat (with oral herpes)
The first outbreak is sometimes the most severe, with symptoms often becoming milder over time. Some people may go years between outbreaks, while others might have them more frequently.
Herpes testing, treatment and prevention
When should you get tested for HSV? While testing for herpes virus in the absence of symptoms or known exposure is not currently recommended due to limitations with available tests, testing can be helpful if you have:
- A sex partner with genital herpes
- A history of genital lesions
- Known exposure to HSV
If you have active symptoms of HSV-1 (i.e., cold sore), it’s important to avoid oral contact with others (including oral sex) and sharing food, drinks or other objects that touched saliva. This also includes kissing; keep in mind that newborn babies have underdeveloped immune systems. It is recommended to avoid kissing a newborn to prevent virus transmission and potentially causing a severe HSV infection in this special population.
For those with genital herpes, it’s important to avoid sexual activity with active symptoms. Condoms can help reduce the risk spreading HSV-2 to others.
While there's no cure for herpes, treatment under the care of a healthcare provider (i.e., prescribed medication) can help manage symptoms, reduce transmission risk and lessen severity and duration of the infection.
Understanding your HSV status allows you to take appropriate precautions and make informed decisions about your health and relationships. Labcorp OnDemand’s Herpes (HSV 1&2) Antibody Test detects antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2, which your body produces in response to the virus. These antibodies stay in your blood regardless of whether you’re experiencing symptoms. However, remember that it may take several weeks after infection for these antibodies to become detectable. Detecting these antibodies indicates past exposure to the virus, but not necessarily an active infection.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as sores or blisters in the oral or genital area, contact a healthcare provider to test for a potential active infection. It’s important to note that false positives and false negatives can occur, which is why it’s always recommended to consult a healthcare provider to interpret your results. They can provide guidance based on your individual health history and any symptoms you may be experiencing. A positive result doesn’t define you or your relationships; people with HSV can lead normal, healthy lives with proper management.
