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Which types of herpes are there?
There are two types of the herpes virus, herpes simplex 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex 2 (HSV-2). Both viruses can cause either genital or oral herpes.
Last reviewed: 09/04/2020 by Dr Simran Deo
Contents
What is herpes simplex 1?
Herpes simplex 1 is a very common virus which predominantly causes cold sores but can also be the cause of genital herpes. It does not always cause symptoms and many people have it without ever experiencing an outbreak. According to the Herpes Viruses Association, over 50% of the population have this virus by the time they reach the age of 30.
You can catch it through skin to skin contact with a person who has it and many people catch it from a parent when they are younger. HSV-1 often causes symptoms within a few days after being infected but may also take months or years before symptoms appear.
What is herpes simplex 2?
HSV-2 Is very similar to HSV-1 but it is usually associated with symptoms that affect your genitals, although can also be the cause of a cold sore. It is transmitted during sex, via skin to skin contact of the genitals, and can cause blisters on your genitals and around the anus. Like HSV-1, it stays in your body for life.
Most people suffer mild or even no symptoms at all, however it can cause unpleasant recurrent outbreaks.
How common is herpes?
The herpes simplex virus is very common. About seven in ten people in the UK are estimated to carry HSVI or HSV2.
The majority of people who carry the virus which causes genital herpes are unaware that they have it, as it only causes symptoms in a small percentage of those who are infected.
Can herpes simplex cause an eye infection?
Herpes simplex 1 can cause eye infections. This can happen if you are infected by another person or if you have a cold sore and rub the virus into your eye. During a herpes episode, take care not to touch the blisters and always wash your hands if you have touched them.Is herpes simplex dangerous?
Most people are carriers of a type of herpes virus and will never experience any symptoms. Outbreaks can be managed with antiviral medication. Like many illnesses, the herpes simplex virus can cause complications in newborn babies, elderly people and people whose immune system is weakened.
Can you die from herpes?
Both types of the herpes simplex virus can be very unpleasant but they're not dangerous. You can not die from genital herpes or cold sores.
However, the virus does pose a threat to newborn babies if they are infected during birth. Although this is rare, the virus can affect the newborn baby’s skin and inner organs as well as the brain. If you have herpes during pregnancy, you should discuss this with your doctor.
The herpes simplex virus can also cause serious complications in patients who have HIV. HIV affects your body’s immune system, which can make it difficult to treat herpes outbreaks effectively. HIV patients often need a higher dose of antiviral treatment to control herpes.