Herpes

Symptoms

• Signs and symptoms may or may not be present
• When symptoms are present:
  • Small blisters may develop around the Mouth (oral herpes); Genital region (genital herpes); Rectum
  • The blisters can burst, creating ulcers that hurt
  • Fever
  • Body and head aches
  • Enlarged lymph nodes

Who is at greater risk?

• Anyone testing positive for HIV
• Newborn infants born from a child-bearer who recently contracted herpes

Screening & Testing

A variety of tests can be done:

• Testing a sample of the blister
• Testing DNA for the Herpes virus
• Blood tests
• Testing the virus (virologic test)

Treatment

• There is no cure for herpes, however it can be managed to reduce symptoms by taking antiviral medication. If taken daily, the antiviral medication can also reduce the risk of transmission to your partner

Prevention

• Latex condoms should be used consistently and correctly every time an individual has sex.
  • Transmission of herpes can occur in areas of the body that a condom does not protect you from
• Not engaging in sexual intercourse
• Being in a relationship where both you and your partner have sex with only each other, and not multiple people
• Being tested for herpes
• Not having sex with a partner when symptoms are present