06.02.26 Public Health Education Topic: Genital Herpes

Per CDC

Key points

• Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can be treated.

• People who are sexually active can get genital herpes.

Overview

Genital herpes is an STI caused by two types of viruses – herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).

Oral herpes

HSV-1 often causes oral herpes, which can result in cold sores or fever blisters on or around the mouth. However, most people with oral herpes do not have any symptoms. Most people with oral herpes get it during childhood or young adulthood from non-sexual contact with saliva.

Genital herpes is common in the United States (U.S.). In 2018, CDC estimates show there were 572,000 new genital herpes infections in the U.S. among people aged 14 to 49.

How is genital herpes spread?

You can get genital herpes by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the infection. You can get herpes if you have contact with:

• A herpes sore

• Saliva from a partner with an oral herpes infection

• Genital fluids from a partner with a genital herpes infection

• Skin in the oral area of a partner with oral herpes

• Skin in the genital area of a partner with genital herpes

You also can get genital herpes from a sex partner who does not have a visible sore or is unaware of their infection. It is also possible to get genital herpes if you receive oral sex from a partner with oral herpes.

You will not get herpes from toilet seats, bedding, or swimming pools. You also will not get it from touching objects, such as silverware, soap, or towels.

If you have more questions about herpes, consider discussing your concerns with a healthcare provider.

How can I prevent genital herpes?

The only way to completely avoid STIs is to not have vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

If you are sexually active, you can do the following things to lower your chances of getting genital herpes:

• Being in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who does not have herpes.

• Using condoms the right way every time you have sex.

Be aware that not all herpes sores occur in areas that a condom can cover. Also, the skin can release the virus (shed) from areas that do not have a visible herpes sore. For these reasons, condoms may not fully protect you from getting herpes.

If your sex partner(s) has/have genital herpes, you can lower your risk of getting it if:

• Your partner takes an anti-herpes medicine every day. This is something your partner should discuss with his or her healthcare provider.

• You avoid having vaginal, anal, or oral sex when your partner has herpes symptoms (i.e., during an "outbreak").

To learn more visit: About Genital Herpes | Genital Herpes | CDC