Genital herpes

What it is

Genital herpes is caused by the virus Herpes simplex 2. However, Herpes simplex 1, which causes cold sores, can also cause some infection. New cases of herpes are most common among women and men over 20.

Symptoms

Symptoms of herpes are usually tingling or itching on or around the genital area followed by the appearance of small, painful blisters. Other symptoms include general flu-like symptoms such as headache, backache or a temperature and burning sensation when passing urine.

People with herpes are most infectious when they have sores or blisters. Tests for herpes can only be done during an episode of blisters.

How it is treated

No cure is yet available for herpes but an anti-viral drug (Aciclovir) can reduce the severity of the first and recurrent episodes as well as the length of the first episode. Most people will only have one or two attacks of herpes but some may have more regular recurrences.

Find out how to protect yourself against STIs.