Dear Daniellemonkeys,

Herpes is an infection caused by two different but closely related viruses — herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Both are easy to catch. They have similar symptoms — itchy or painful blistery sores. When the infection is on the mouth, it is called oral herpes. When it is on or near the sex organs, it is called genital herpes.

Up to 80 percent of Americans have the most common form of herpes (HSV-1) at some time. It usually appears as oral herpes and is most often spread without sexual contact.

More than 45 million Americans have gotten herpes through sexual contact. Half a million new cases are diagnosed every year. Most often genital herpes is caused by HSV-2.

Although there is no cure for herpes, in most cases outbreaks become fewer and weaker over the course of a few years. They usually end within five or six years. Although herpes outbreaks recur only in about half of the people who have it, you can help prevent recurring outbreaks by maintaining a good diet, getting enough sleep, and avoiding stress.

People who have many (more than six a year) recurring outbreaks may want to consider using medicines like acyclovir, famiciclovir, or valacyclovir in order to reduce the number and severity of outbreaks. These medications must be prescribed by a clinician.

HSV is most contagious from the time the sores are present until seven days after they are completely healed and the scabs have fallen off — some people may be contagious even when they have no symptoms.

Partners should refrain from sexual intimacy from the time they know the blisters are going to recur until seven days after after the scabs have completely fallen off the healed sores. Condoms offer some protection against the virus between outbreaks.

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.