What Are The 8 Different Types Of Herpes?

Of the more than 100 known herpesviruses, 8 routinely infect only humans: herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, varicella-zoster virus, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, human herpesvirus 6 (variants A and B), human herpesvirus 7, and Kaposi’s sarcoma virus or human herpesvirus 8.

What are the 8 strains of herpes?

There are eight herpesviruses for which humans are the primary host. They are the herpes simplex virus 1, herpes simplex virus 2, varicella-zoster virus, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, Human herpesvirus-6, Human herpesvirus-7, and Kaposi’s sarcoma herpes virus.

Which type of herpes is curable?

The symptoms may appear as oral herpes or genital herpes. Currently, there is no cure. Most people with herpes do not show symptoms, but the infection can also cause painful ulcers and blisters. Those without symptoms can still pass the infection on to others.

What is the difference between herpes 1 and 2?

HSV-1 is mainly transmitted by oral-to-oral contact to cause oral herpes (which can include symptoms known as “cold sores”), but can also cause genital herpes. HSV-2 is a sexually transmitted infection that causes genital herpes.

Which type of herpes is worst?

The initial (primary) infection of oral herpes is usually the worst. It may cause severe, flu-like symptoms, including swollen lymph nodes and headache. However, some people have no symptoms at all. During the initial infection, sores can occur on and around the lips and throughout the mouth.

Is herpes 1 or 2 worse?

HSV-1 can cause “genital herpes,” but most cases of genital herpes are caused by HSV-2. Typically, someone with HSV-2 will have sores around the genitals or rectum. Symptoms are usually the most intense during the first outbreak and become less intense over time.

How many variations of herpes are there?

But did you know that, in total, there are actually eight different types of herpes that can affect humans, ranging from the relatively common HSV-1, to recurrent viruses like HHV-3 (shingles), HHV-4 and recently observed forms of the virus, such as HHV-6, 7 and 8?

How long is herpes contagious?

How long are cold sores contagious for? Cold sores, caused by a type of virus called herpes simplex type 1, are contagious until they completely go away, which usually takes about two weeks. Cold sores are the most contagious when fluid seeps out of the sores.

Is herpes simplex an STD?

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2).

Does rubbing alcohol help herpes?

Put rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball. Put this on the blisters to reduce swelling and to help the sores dry up. Do this for 2 minutes, 4 times a day.

What are the signs of herpes on a woman?

The first signs may include:

• Itching, tingling, or burning feeling in the vaginal or anal area.
• Flu-like symptoms, including fever.
• Swollen glands.
• Pain in the legs, buttocks, or vaginal area.
• A change in vaginal discharge.
• Headache.
• Painful or difficult urination.
• A feeling of pressure in the area below the stomach.

Are HSV-1 and HSV-2 interchangeable?

“The main difference between the two types of HSV is a slight difference in DNA,” Wright said. Similarly, HSV-1 will present itself like HSV-2 if it becomes present in the genital region: Blister(s) around the genitals, rectum or mouth. Sores that take weeks to heal.

How far away is a cure for herpes?

It will still take a long time before these experiments lead to the first human trials of gene therapy to cure herpes. Jerome estimates that will be at least three years away. Herpes simplex viruses afflict billions of human beings around the globe.

Is herpes still contagious after 10 years?

WASHINGTON — High rates of both overall and subclinical viral shedding continue even beyond 10 years among people with genital herpes simplex virus type 2 infection, suggesting that there is a continued risk of transmission to sexual partners long after initial infection.

What is the longest a herpes outbreak can last?

Over time, reappearances occur less often. The first outbreak is usually the most severe and lasts the longest, sometimes 2 to 4 weeks. During an outbreak, you might notice tingling or sores (lesions) near the area where HSV first entered your body.

What triggers herpes outbreaks?

Triggers for recurrence — Illness, stress, sunlight, and fatigue can trigger recurrent herpes outbreaks. In women, menstrual periods may trigger an outbreak. When did I become infected? — The first time a person has noticeable signs or symptoms of herpes may not be the initial episode.