What Is It

A viral infection of the genital area, and sometimes around the mouth.

How Many Get It

About 1 million new cases each year. An estimated 45 million cases already exist.

Signs

Most people have no symptoms. Herpes 1 causes cold sores and fever blisters on the mouth but can be spread to the genitals; Herpes 2 is usually on the genitals, but can be spread to the mouth. An outbreak can cause red bumps that turn into painful blisters or sores on genitals and elsewhere. During the first attack, it can also lead to flu-like symptoms: fever, headaches, and swollen glands. Symptoms usually appear within 2 weeks of infection.

How It's Spread

By touching an infected area (infected areas may not always be noticeable), or having unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse. Warning: Some people may be contagious even when they don't have symptoms.

Treatment

There is no cure, but medications can help reduce the pain and itching as well as the frequency of recurrent outbreaks.

Possible Consequences

Increased risk for infection of other STDs, including HIV. Recurrent sores--the virus lives in the nerve roots and keeps coming back. Passing herpes from mother to newborn is rare; however, an infant who gets herpes can become very ill, so some precautions are advisable.

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