Herpes is a common incurable viral infection which affects over 45 million Americans.

Herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2) are two species of the herpes virus family, Herpesviridae, which cause infections in humans. Eight members of herpesviridae infect humans to cause a variety of illnesses including cold sores, chickenpox or varicella, shingles or herpes zoster (VZV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and various cancers, and can also cause brain swelling (encephalitis). All viruses in the herpes family produce life-long infections.

The disease is classified in 3 main forms.

Herpes Simplex Virus - HSV-1, commonly known as Cold Sores or Oral Herpes affects the mouth internally (canker) and externally.

Herpes Simplex Virus-2 - HSV-2 or Genital Herpes which affects the sexual organs.

Herpes Zoster - Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV), commonly known as Shingles is a residual disease from Chicken Pox and can be transmitted through contact.

very aggressive and any direct contact on any area of your body can become infected. These outbreaks are sub-types of Herpes and are often called other names such as

• Pink Eye - Not always Herpes but is caused when the HSV mucous is rubbed into the eye. This can eventually lead to blindness.
• Chicken Pox - Generally affecting children

Most individuals have none or minimal signs and symptoms from a herpes infection. When signs do occur, they can be very painfully and typically appear as one or more blisters on or around the genitals, rectum, or lip area. The initial outbreak is always the longest lasting and most painful,  Although the infection can stay in the body indefinitely.

While there is no cure for herpes, there are many ways to alleviate the pain and discomfort including medication, suppressants, and ointments.