One of the most common infections on the face of the Earth is herpes. For those who might not know, this is a category of virus that infects millions of people every year. If not detected early, there are a number of complications that might develop. For this reason, it is important for everyone to know some of the basic information regarding herpes. This starts with understanding the types of herpes and how the virus is transmitted from person to person. Armed with this information, people can take steps to protect themselves from harm.
The Types of Herpes
If someone is concerned about getting herpes, there are two different types of herpes that people need to be concerned about. The first type of herpes is called Herpes Simplex Virus 1, often shortened to HSV 1. If someone has contracted this form of herpes, they are likely going to develop cold sores in and around their mouth. This might show up on the lips, the gums, the cheeks, and even the tongue. These cold sores can cause pain, particularly if they open up. Eating or drinking acidic foods, such as orange juice or tomato sauce, can make the pain worse.
The second type of herpes that someone might catch is called Herpes Simplex Virus 2, often shortened to HSV 2. This type of virus is contracted almost exclusively through sexual contact. This virus can cause unsightly genital warts. These warts can show up anywhere around the genitals including the anus, labia, vulva, penis, and scrotum. When people develop genital warts, they are concerned about spreading it to other people. Therefore, people need to keep in mind a few important points regarding the transmission of this virus.
The Transmission of Herpes Simplex Virus Among Family Members
There are many people who are concerned about getting herpes from other people, such as a family member. In order to understand how this virus can be passed from person to person, it is important to, again, break this virus down into its types.
The first type of herpes virus, HSV 1, leads to the development of cold sores. People contract this type of virus if they make direct contact with infected fluid. This includes saliva, blood, and even the fluid that comes out if the sores end up getting unroofed or ripped open. Therefore, it is possible that someone can catch HSV 1 from a family member. If a mother or father kisses a child, they can either contract the virus from the child or pass the virus on to the child. People can also transmit this virus to their husband or wife when they kiss that person. Therefore, HSV 1 can be passed from family member to family member.
The second type of herpes virus, HSV 2, is a bit harder to get from a family member because the potential pool of people is much smaller. HSV 2 is a sexually transmitted disease that leads to genital warts. Therefore, this virus is contracted when someone has sex with an infected person or makes physical contact with a genital wart. Therefore, among family members, this virus is really only passed between husband and wife. Intercourse, oral sex, and anal sex can all lead to the infection of another family member. Therefore, if someone has genital warts, it is important to see a doctor as quickly as possible so that the virus can be treated in an appropriate manner. This can prevent someone from passing the virus to one of their partners, including their husband or wife.
Seeing a Doctor for Herpes: Rely on HerpAlert
Clearly, it is important to limit the transmission of HSV from person to person, particularly among family members. In order to do this, people need to seek medical care as quickly as possible. Sadly, people often end up waiting days or weeks to see a doctor. This wait is unacceptable. This is where HerpAlert is working to change all of this. Often, a diagnosis can be made in a virtual setting. That is exactly what HerpAlert can do. By looking at photos of someone’s lesions, such as genital warts or cold sores, the doctor can make a quick diagnosis and prescribe treatment if this is needed. Anyone who is looking for treatment quickly should rely on HerpAlert to make this happen.