Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a virus that can infect many different parts of your body, most commonly your mouth area (oral herpes) and genitals (genital herpes). Herpes virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes virus type 2 (HSV-2) can both cause oral and genital herpes, but you can only tell them apart with a test. HSV-1 is usually linked to cold sores, while HSV-2 is more common with genital herpes.

Context Explanation

Both viruses can spread even when there are no visible symptoms. Herpes simplex virus (HSV), known as herpes, is a common infection that can cause painful blisters or ulcers. It primarily spreads by skin-to-skin contact. It is treatable but not curable.

Insight Material

There are two types of herpes simplex virus. The herpes simplex virus comes in two forms: HSV-1 and HSV-2, causing oral herpes and genital herpes. Learn more about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of these viruses. Herpes is a disease caused by two viruses — HSV-1 and HSV-2. Learn about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of this common condition.

Final Conclusion

Herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2) are two members of the human Herpesviridae family, a set of viruses that produce viral infections in the majority of humans. [1][2] Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 are very common and contagious. The herpes simplex virus, also known as HSV, is a viral infection that causes genital and oral herpes. Get the details on key signs, diagnosis, and treatment. Eight types of herpesviruses infect humans, 2 of which are herpes simplex viruses (HSV). Both types of herpes simplex virus, HSV-1 and HSV-2, can cause oral or genital infection, although either can cause infection in any location.