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This week I will be discussing HSV-1 and HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus 1&2). These viruses are both double stranded enveloped DNA viruses. They are both latent infections that reoccur when the immune system weakens. According to an article in Medical News Today, HSV-1 is the main cause of cold sores and HSV-2 is the main cause of genital herpes. Transmission of these cold sores is primarily caused by kissing and transmission of genital herpes is caused by skin to skin contact in sexual activity. HSV-1&2 affects 50-80% of the population. This is a large number which makes it an important virus to understand.
One thing I was really confused about is why HSV-1 symptoms do not occur in some individuals. I am an example of someone who has been in contact with individuals with cold sores, but I have never had a cold sore in my life. Through research, I was informed that because it is an asymptomatic virus, some individuals can carry the virus without showing symptoms due to their genes. For most individuals, it takes about a week for symptoms to occur. I am lucky to have never had a cold sore, but this is still an important infection to understand.
Personally, my main prevention method is abstinence (HSV-2 specifically). If you are currently sexually active, it is important to know your partners well enough to know if they have HSV-2. In cases where HSV-2 is present, abstinence and condoms are the best prevention methods. Because it is latent, in between outbreaks there are smaller chances for the virus to be transmitted. Being really honest with your significant other is important, especially when it could change the remainder of their life. There is no cure for either of these viruses, but medication is available to suppress the virus and reduce the risk of transmission.
Microbiology with Alicia 