Herpes%20simplex%20virus%20infection Signs and Symptoms

Primary Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infection

• First infection with either herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) or herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) in individuals who do not have antibodies to either HSV-1 or HSV-2

First Episode - Nonprimary Infection

• Infection with either HSV-1 or HSV-2 in individuals who have previously existing antibodies against HSV-1 or HSV-2 respectively

Recurrent Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infection

• Results from reactivation of latent virus
• Usually brought about by triggering factors eg ultraviolet (UV) light, immunosuppression, trauma, stress, febrile illness
• Less severe and becomes less frequent with time

• Globally, HSV-1 infection affects approximately 3.7 billion individuals under 50 years of age, and approximately 491 million in 15 to 49-year-old-individuals are infected with HSV-2

• Direct contact with sores, saliva or areas around the mouth of actively shedding individuals encourage transmission of HSV-1; incubation period ranges from 2-12 days
• HSV-2 virus is typically transmitted during sexual intercourse through direct contact of genital or anal surfaces, skin, sores or fluids