Herpes

Herpes is a common and usually mild infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). About half of adults in the United States have oral herpes, commonly called cold sores or fever blisters. About one in eight adults have genital herpes, but most are unaware of their infection.

Managing Herpes: The Science, The Facts, The Feelings

Managing Herpes: The Science, The Facts, The Feelings helps take the mystery out of herpes, explaining everything from diagnosis and treatment, to symptom management, to herpes and pregnancy.

Adjusting to Herpes—Dealing with the Emotional Issues

Herpes may raise strong emotional issues, especially in the first few weeks or months after a diagnosis. The good news is that these emotions tend to fade away over time.

Five Things You Should Know about Herpes

ASHA answers many questions from the public about STIs, including about genital herpes. Here we offer five things to know about how to manage this common infection.

Fast facts about HSV (Herpes Simplex Virus)

Herpes is a very common viral infection caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). I can cause sores on the mouth or face or in the genital area. Herpes cannot be cured, but it can be treated.

HHS Recognizes Herpes as a Priority in the STI National Plan

The STI National Plan has now been amended to add genital herpes as a priority.

Diagnosing and Managing Genital Herpes

In this two-part episode of ASHA's Sex+Health podcast, Terri Warren, RN, ANP explains many approaches to diagnosing herpes as well as strategies to effectively manage herpes in a relationship and deal with the emotional aspects of the diagnosis.

Task Force Decides Against Routine Herpes Screenings

The U.S. Preventative Service Task Force (USPSTF) has advised against routine screening for herpes in adolescents, adults, and pregnant women.

ASHA Survey Shows Many Herpes Patients Diagnosed Incorrectly

Think you can tell that a rash or sore is a genital herpes infection just by looking at it? If you said “no,” you’re right. You can’t. And neither can your healthcare provider.

Herpes Vaccine Research

There are currently both preventive and therapeutic vaccines under development. While the primary focus is on HSV-2, the primary cause of genital infection, HSV-2 vaccines may also have benefits in preventing or treating HSV-1 infection.

Herpes Support Groups

Support groups provide information and allow participants to share experiences, fears, and feelings with others who are concerned about herpes.