Herpes – The Gift That Keeps On Giving

• Herpes is very common. About 67% of adults in the United States have HSV-1, and about 15% have HSV-2.
• Herpes can be transmitted even if you don’t have any symptoms. This is why it is important to talk to your partner about your herpes status before you have sex.
• There is no way to completely prevent the transmission of herpes. However, using condoms and other barrier methods can help to reduce the risk.
• Herpes is not a serious health threat. However, it can be painful and uncomfortable. Outbreaks can also be embarrassing.

If you have herpes, there are things you can do to manage your condition. These include:

• Staying informed about herpes. The more you know about the virus, the better equipped you will be to manage it.
• Taking antiviral medications. Antiviral medications can help to reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.
• Practicing safe sex. Using condoms and other barrier methods can help to reduce the risk of transmitting herpes to others.
• Taking care of yourself during an outbreak. There are things you can do to relieve the pain and discomfort of an outbreak, such as taking over-the-counter pain medication and applying a cold compress to the affected area.

If you have any questions or concerns about herpes, talk to your doctor. They can help you to understand your condition and develop a plan for managing it.