Herpes simplex is the viral infection that is caused by the herpes simplex virus. The manifestations of this disease are found mostly in the genital region or around the mouth. It is one of the deadly viruses in the world that is quite difficult to combat. The word herpes owes its origin from the Greek word “herpein” means “to creep”.

Did you know that these viruses are double-stranded DNA viruses that infect only the humans? The Herpes Simplex Virus are most commonly found in two types- HSV-1 and HSV-2. It is the Herpes Simplex Virus-type I that causes oral sores, which taint the skins causing herpes whitlow. While the HSV-type-II affects the genital area. The Genital Herpes affect the genital areas, the buttocks and the anal region.

This virus can even affect the central nervous system leading to serious disorders such as Mollaret’s meningitis, Encephalitis, Bell’s palsy. This deadly virus can be the cause of death in the infants if attacks the brain. The infants might get this virus due to the Neonatal Herpes Simplex virus in the pregnant mothers.

One can encounter this disease, or the virus can be transmitted from one person to another while kissing, intercourse and orogenital sexual activities.

The virus comes into contact with the broken skin or the lining of the mouth. Entering the nuclei of the cell it tends to replicate itself. No symptoms are found in several occasions. The cells get destroyed and form sores, blisters or even ulcers in the process of replication within the nuclei. The sores tend to become very itchy and painful.

For the herpes virus test the samples can be collected in various ways. Most common is that the fluids and the cells from the sores are collected with a cotton swab. Several types of body fluids can also be collected for testing; spinal fluid, blood and in most cases the urine and tears also tested. Again, the genital herpes test is done by a viral culture. The antibody test is the genital herpes test more commonly used on blood.

There are actually various ways of diagnosing the virus presence. The best is to consult a physician when one starts feeling uneasy. Get some test done and be informed as what is to be done to combat this dreadful disease.

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