Infectious Diseases

Herpes simplex virus:

Genital and oral herpes are both diseases caused by the herpes simplex virus, or HSV for short. Many individuals have HSV that is asymptomatic, meaning they carry the virus but have never experienced an active episode or an outbreak of herpes. Others may frequently see little blisters or sores filled with fluid. Blisters often develop on the body's more intimate areas, such as the mouth and lips, but they can also develop on the hands, fingers, and other body parts. HSV may spread sexually, but there are other ways it can do so as well. Despite the stigma surrounding herpes, it's actually extremely common and nothing to be embarrassed of.