HSV2

HSV-2, or herpes simplex virus type 2, is a common human virus in the Herpesviridae family that causes genital herpes. After initial infection, the virus remains in the body for life, establishing latency in sensory ganglia and occasionally reactivating to cause recurrent symptoms.

Transmission occurs mainly through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. The virus can be spread even when no sores are present because of asymptomatic viral shedding.

Many HSV-2 infections are asymptomatic. When symptoms occur, they typically include painful genital or anal sores, itching or burning, and sometimes fever or swollen glands. Recurring outbreaks are possible, with frequency varying among individuals. HSV-2 infection can be transmitted from an infected pregnant person to a newborn during delivery, which may require medical consideration.

Diagnosis is based on laboratory testing. PCR testing of a lesion swab or viral culture can identify the virus. Blood tests detect antibodies to HSV-2 and indicate past infection; serology cannot determine when the infection occurred, and IgM testing is less reliable and not routinely used.

There is no cure for HSV-2. Antiviral medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir reduce the duration and severity of outbreaks and lower viral shedding. For people with frequent outbreaks or high transmission risk, suppressive therapy with daily antiviral medication is often recommended.

Prevention includes using condoms, which reduce but do not eliminate risk, and avoiding sexual contact during outbreaks. Daily antiviral therapy can further reduce transmission to partners. Pregnant individuals with HSV-2 should consult healthcare providers about delivery options to minimize neonatal risk.

As of 2024, there is no licensed HSV-2 vaccine; research is ongoing. HSV-2 is the usual cause of genital herpes, though HSV-1 increasingly causes genital infections through oral-genital contact.