Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by one of two Herpes Simplex Viruses (HSV): type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 is the general cause orofacial infection while HSV-2 is the general cause of genital infection.
HSV-1 Orofacial infection
Symptoms for HSV-1 or orofacial infection include prodromal (premonitory) symptoms, skin irritations, sores, blisters and lesions. Typical occurrence of oral herpes are found on the lips or almost in any area of the face. It can also be found on fixed fixed mucosa inside the mouth including the palate and gums. Oral herpes are sometimes mistaken to be canker sores.
It is estimated that 50 percent of American carry HSV-1 antibodies upon entering adolescence and about 80-90 percent by the time they are over 50.
HSV-2 Genital infection
Symptoms for HSV-2 or genital infection include prodromal (premonitory) symptoms, itching in the affected areas, sores and lesions. Common occurrence of lesions in males can be found in the genital regions including the shaft of the penis, buttocks, inner thighs and anus. In females, occurrence can be found in the labia, vulva, buttocks, clitoris, area near the pubis and the anus. Careful examination should be done by a medical professional because symptoms are similar to that of chlamydia or gonorrhea.
Genital herpes is common around the world. In the United States alone, one out of five adults and adolescents has genital herpes infection. This translates to at least 45 million cases among people aged 12 up. Approximately one out of four women in America has HSV-2 infection. The cases of genital herpes in America increase to 30 percent between 1970 and 1990.
Neonatal herpes simplex infection
Neonatal herpes simplex disease is very rare but child mortality is high. It occurs with transmission from an infected mother to a newborn child. Some reports show that incidence in Australia and the United Kingdom is 3.61 per 100,000 live births. The United States has a lower figure.
Anti-Herpes vaccines
Herpevac vaccine for HSV-2 is currently in phase 3 trials by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the United States. The commercial version of the vaccine is targeted to available by 2008.
Treatment for Herpes
There is currently no known cure for Herpes but some non-prescription analgesics can help ease pain during onset. Some antivirus medications can help control herpes outbreaks. These include valaciclovir (Valtrex), famciclovir (Famvir), including aciclovir (Zovirax) and penciclovir.
Prevention of Herpes
The age-old practice of monogamy is still one the best preventive measures for the spread of Herpes. Condoms and other contraceptives, although not completely effective, significantly reduce the risk of transmission. Avoidance of random and casual sex is a very a effective way to be safe. Other effective measure to take include personal hygiene by thoroughly washing the genital after intercourse, using lubricants during sex and minimizing stress.
Educating one’s self about the risks and avoidance of Herpes is an effective way to not get infected by this deadly virus. Many health centers give free counseling to couples on safe sex practices.
|