Herpes is a venereal disease or Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD), or a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) caused by Herpes simplex viruses; both herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2). Infection with the herpes virus is categorized into one of several distinct disorders based on the site of infection.

Oral herpes have the visible symptoms of cold sores infect the face and mouth of a person. Oral herpes is the most common form of infection. The infection of the genitals, commonly known as herpes, is the second most common form of herpes. These STDs are uncurable and very painful. They can appear all over the human body even inside and outside the eyes.

Herpes in eyes can cause blindness. The Herpes virus cycle appears between periods of active disease. Initially, they appear as blisters containing infectious virus particles that last between 2–21 days. This is then followed by a remission period during which the sores disappear. Genital herpes, however is often asymptomatic, though viral shedding may still occur. After initial infection, the viruses move to sensory nerves, where they reside as life-long, latent viruses.

Causes of recurrence are uncertain, though some potential triggers have been identified. This disease appears spontaneously throughout one’s life, if they are diagnosed with herpes. Herpes, like most Sexually Transmitted Infections are mostly transmitted by direct contact with a graze or the exchange of body fluid of an infected individual.

Transmission may also occur through skin-to-skin contact during periods of asymptomatic shedding. Sharing Sex Toys is also another main cause of transmitting herpes. Barrier protection methods such as contraceptives are the most reliable, but not the guaranteed method of preventing transmission of herpes. Oral herpes is easily diagnosed if the patient presents with visible sores or ulcers. Early stages of oro-facial herpes and genital herpes are harder to diagnose; laboratory testing is usually required.

Prevalence of Herpes Simplex Viral infections varies throughout the world. Poor hygiene, overcrowding, lower socioeconomic status, and birth in an undeveloped country have been identified as risk factors associated with increased childhood infection of herpes. As mentioned, there is currently no cure for herpes; no vaccine is currently available to prevent or eliminate herpes. However, treatments are available to reduce viral reproduction and shedding, prevent the virus from entering the skin, and alleviate the severity of symptomatic episodes.

The only thing one could do in avoiding the disease is by engaging into safe sex with contraceptives. To learn more about how to practice safe sex, please visit an Online Adult Toys Sex Store.