They cause cold sores or fever blisters and genital herpes respectively.
These infections can be very embarrassing and very contagious.
The Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 infects the facial area. The virus enters the body 2 to 10 days after contact with an infected person. The area at which it made the entry could become itchy and painful. A blister then forms around the area. The blister bursts may be accidentally with the liquid inside oozing out. The tender ulcer heals within 7-14 days leaving no scar.
When you have a fever blister or cold sore, you should be very careful not to infect others. This you can avoid by not kissing, sharing cups, lip balms, face towels, plates, spoons etc.
The cold sores have two stages, the primary and recurrent stages. The primary stage takes 2-20 days after the infection. A blister then occurs on the facial area. The recurrent stage is usually much more mild and is usually triggered by fever, menstruation period, fatigue, high acid foods or poor immune system.
Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 infects the genital area. This infection is called genital herpes and is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). You can get infected during sexual intercourse or even during oral sex. You can use latex condoms though this is not a 100% sure way of prevention. If the areas surrounding your genital areas are infected. You could also infect your partner because the condom does not cover this area.
Pregnant mothers could also give the herpes simplex virus to their unborn babies during child birth. It is therefore advisable to inform your doctor if you have the infection.
The infection can clear within 14 days or even take a month.
This Herpes simplex virus remains dormant in your body and can recur at a later date. You may carry the virus and not even know that you have it.
Mercy Maranga Reports on Health and Fitness issues. Visit Her Site here for more information on Cold Sores and its management Chronic Cold Sores [http://macypages.com/2009/04/chronic-cold-sores/]
