Dear mysterieus,

It's possible to have the first (primary) outbreak of herpes from two to three weeks after the virus enters the body. But it may happen earlier. And it may take much longer.

People who have gotten herpes usually don't know they have the infection until their primary outbreak happens. These are blisters and open sores — which itch, hurt, and burn. It takes about two weeks for a primary herpes outbreak to heal. If the sores reoccur (they do in about half of people with herpes) then future outbreaks of blisters are less severe. Severe primary outbreaks may include symptoms such as:

• swollen, tender glands in the groin
• chills
• fever
• headache
• tiredness
• achy, flu-like symptoms

However, most people with herpes — about 45 million in America, with more than half a million new cases diagnosed each year — will have either occasional sores or no symptoms at all. That's right — a person can carry the virus and not show symptoms. Many people do, and they may unknowingly spread the virus along to their partners. The only way to diagnose herpes is to visit a health center if sores appear.

People can people prevent spreading herpes to others. There may be some early warning signs before an outbreak occurs — tingling, burning, or itching where sores were before. The warning signs may start a few hours or a day before the sores flare up. It's best to stop having sexual contact if you feel one of these symptoms.

Touching sores may spread the virus to other parts of the body. If you have active herpes don't touch the sores. If you do, wash your hands with soap and water — this kills the virus.

Wash your hands:

• after going to the bathroom
• before rubbing your eyes
• before touching a contact lens

Don't wet contact lenses with saliva — especially if you have oral herpes. If you have a cold sore on your mouth, don't kiss anyone — especially infants, children, or pregnant women.

If you have a genital sore, don't have sexual intercourse — even with a condom. Wait until seven days after the sore heals. The virus can spread from sores not covered by the condom. It can also spread in sweat or vaginal fluids to places the condom doesn't cover. Having sex, even with a condom, will irritate the sores, and they will take longer to heal.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.