Herpeszfertzés

Herpeszfertzés, commonly known as herpes simplex, is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types of HSV: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 is typically associated with oral herpes, causing cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth and lips. HSV-2 is primarily responsible for genital herpes, which affects the genital and anal areas. However, either type can infect either location.

Herpes is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person's sores or bodily fluids, such as saliva or genital secretions, when the virus is actively shedding. This shedding can occur even if no visible sores are present. Transmission can happen through kissing, oral sex, vaginal sex, or anal sex.

Symptoms of herpes can vary greatly. Many infected individuals have no symptoms or very mild ones that go unnoticed. When symptoms do appear, they often include painful blisters or sores that eventually crust over and heal. Oral herpes commonly presents as cold sores. Genital herpes can cause itching, burning, pain in the genital area, and sores. Flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes may also occur during the initial outbreak.

Once infected, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate periodically, leading to recurrent outbreaks. These outbreaks are often triggered by stress, illness, fatigue, hormonal changes, or sun exposure. While there is no cure for herpes, antiviral medications can help manage symptoms, reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks, and lower the risk of transmission to partners.