Herpes Simplex Virus 2

Herpes Simplex Virus 2 is a sexually transmitted viral infection, which results in painful sores or lesions developing in and around the genital area, upper thighs clitoris, labia, vulva and rectum. Once infected, an individual may carry the virus and be subject to many recurrent episodes. Studies have shown that an estimated 20 percent of the US adult population have been exposed to this virus.

Symptoms of Herpes Simplex Virus 2

The first signs of herpes2 are a cluster of blisters forming in the genital area (head of penis, labia, around the anus, and around the cervix). These tend to crust and break open. They also tend to weep, secreting a clear fluid. These outbreaks usually last for around 2 weeks before disappearing. It is the fluid secreted from these itching, painful sores is highly infectious.

Frequent symptoms

Painful urination
Painful urination can also be a sign of a bladder infection.
Irregular urethral or vaginal discharge
Swollen lymph nodes
Headache or pains in and around the forehead and temples
Fever
Chills
Weakness or lack of muscular strength
People who have more than 6 recurrences of genital herpes per year may need to continue taking antiviral medications to reduce recurrences

Other signs and symptoms

Sign and symptoms occur during the first outbreak. The first outbreak occurs within 2 weeks after the virus is transmitted and any sores usually heal within 2 to 4 weeks after the outbreak.
Flu symptoms such as: (fever, swollen glands)

Treatment

Acyclovir
Valacyclovir
Famciclovir
Taking baths in warm salt water helps sooth and treat herpes outbreaks
There is no treatment that can cure this disease (herpes)
These medications can prevent recurrence outbreaks of herpes.

Preventions to take

Avoid sexual contact with a person that has these symptoms.
Cesarean section is often recommended when primary or recurrent herpes2 lesions occur late in pregnancy. This helps prevent the baby from contracting the herpes virus should the mother be infected.
Rest and recuperation helps with body wellness and overall strength.
Limit the number of your sex partners and remain faithful.
Use a male or female condom every time during sexual or even anal intercourse. Use these only once. Herpes may however extend to areas not covered by a condom so always be cautious and look out for this.
If you think you are infected, avoid any sexual contact until you have visited your general GP or Clinic.
Male to female transmission is higher with regards to herpes and most STD’s than female to male transmission.

Can herpes be cured?

Herpes cannot be cured. Once someone is infected with the virus, it cannot be cleared from the human body.
Severe herpes flare-ups can be incredibly painful. In a very small number of cases, herpes can spread to other organs, including the eyes, the throat, the lungs, and the brain. Most people with HSV-2 (Genital Herpes Virus) never have sores, or they have such mild signs that they mistake it to be an insect bite.
An individual diagnosed with a first episode of genital herpes can expect several outbreaks or recurrences within a year. As time goes on these outbreaks may decrease.