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HSV-2 infection



HSV-2 infection Causes


Infections are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2.


HSV-2 infection Definition


HSV1 (HHV1) and HSV2 (HHV2) are neurotrophic alpha-herpesviruses that occur naturally only in humans.


HSV-2 infection Diagnosis


Herpes is best diagnosed by determining the virus in the laboratory with a swab test. This is a fairly simple test, and involves the doctor or sexual health nurse rubbing a suspicious area of skin with a swab (like a cotton bud). This method of diagnosis makes it possible to match up the virus with changes that are happening within the skin.


HSV-2 infection Symptoms and Signs


Classic outbreaks of genital herpes happen as a series of skin changes over seven to ten days. Tingling, numbness or itching is the initial sign of an outbreak for some people, and the skin overlying the area often looks normal. A group of small, painful blisters then appears on the skin, and the surrounding skin will usually become red. The blisters often join together and burst, leaving an ulcer or sore. These ulcers become crusted and form a scab. When the crust falls away from the skin, there is often a small patch of redness which fades over a few days. During recurrences, people may suffer from pain around the site. The skin might sometimes feel numb or prickly (like when you get 'pins and needles'). Occasionally, there may be more uncommon symptoms, such as back pain, or flu-like symptoms.


HSV-2 infection Treatment


There are three medications available for the treatment of genital herpes are: aciclovir, valaciclovir and famciclovir.


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