Herpes Transmission

Herpes Transmission

Facts And Useful Information About Herpes Transmission

There are two major forms of the herpes virus; Herpes Type 1 and Herpes Type 2. Type 1 creates sores by the lips and mouth while Type 2 involve sores by the genitals. Herpes type 1 is extremely common. More than half of the American adult population has a form of oral herpes. Herpes transmission occurs by skin to skin contact. It is important to consult a doctor if a person believes that they have contracted this virus.

Herpes is extremely easy to spread especially when sores are present, but can also spread without an outbreak. Sometimes an infected person will feel a tingle or itch prior to visibly seeing anything appear on the skin. Others have symptoms so minimal that they do not even know that they have the virus in their system. To prevent complications and infecting other areas of the body, always wash hands thoroughly.

Testing for genital herpes is essential. Physical genital herpes symptoms alone may not always be accurate ways to diagnose the virus. A physician can take a sample from a genital sore in search of herpes. A cell culture allows for a sample of the virus to multiply and be analyzed in a lab. Another test called The Direct Fluorescent Antibody Test is another way to identify herpes. It does not diagnose an outbreak, but can differentiate between the two types of the virus.

Two other tests include the Tzanck Test and the PCR test. The Tzanck test dyes a sore sample and has it analyzed under a microscope. A cell with herpes appears unique. A PCR test searches out DNA from the virus. Blood tests can detect herpes without symptoms being present. It is important to note that tests only tell that a person has been exposed to the virus. There is no way to tell at what time. In the near future, urine and saliva tests may be developed.

Once the herpes virus has been positively diagnosed, a person must choose a treatment. There are many different medications on the market that can be used to control and reduce the frequency and length of an outbreak.

Herpes transmission is very common. A person must be correctly diagnosed by a doctor to begin treatment. Over the counter pain medicine can help relieve any discomfort during outbreaks. Always be honest with intimate partners as to lessen the chances of passing it on to others.