HSV-1, or herpes simplex virus type 1, is a common virus that causes oral herpes, also known as cold sores or fever blisters. It can also cause genital herpes, but this is less common. HSV-1 is spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, such as through kissing, oral sex, or sharing utensils or other personal items.
How common is HSV-1?
HSV-1 is very common. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 3.7 billion people under age 50 (67%) have HSV-1 infection globally. Most people with HSV-1 are not aware of their infection, as they may never have any symptoms.
What are the symptoms of HSV-1?
The most common symptom of HSV-1 is cold sores. Cold sores are usually small, painful blisters that appear on the lips, mouth, or inside the nose. They typically last for 7-10 days before healing.
Some people with HSV-1 may also experience genital herpes. Symptoms of genital herpes include blisters or ulcers on the genitals, rectum, or anus. Genital herpes outbreaks can be more painful and last longer than cold sores.
Is there a cure for HSV-1?
There is no cure for HSV-1. However, there are antiviral medications that can help to shorten the duration and severity of outbreaks. Antiviral medications can also help to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others.
How can I prevent HSV-1 infection?
There are a few things you can do to prevent HSV-1 infection:
- Avoid kissing or having oral sex with someone who has a cold sore.
- Avoid sharing utensils or other personal items with someone who has HSV-1.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after touching a cold sore or genital herpes lesion.
- Use condoms during vaginal or anal sex.
If you think you may have HSV-1, it is important to talk to your doctor. They can test you for the virus and provide you with information about treatment and prevention.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about HSV-1:
- HSV-1 is a lifelong infection, but most people with HSV-1 have only a few outbreaks each year.
- Outbreaks can be triggered by stress, fatigue, illness, or exposure to sunlight.
- There is no risk of spreading HSV-1 to others when there are no visible sores.
- HSV-1 can be spread to a baby during childbirth. Pregnant women with HSV-1 should talk to their doctor about how to reduce the risk of transmission to their baby.
Overall, HSV-1 is a common and manageable infection. With proper treatment and prevention, most people with HSV-1 can live healthy and active lives.
