What are the transmission routes of genital herpes?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on November 15, 2024
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Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 infection, with the primary transmission route being sexual contact. However, some patients can also be infected through contact with contaminated clothing or through activities like bathing, swimming, or staying in hotels, although these methods have a relatively lower chance of transmission.

Once infected with genital herpes, it generally persists for life and cannot be completely eradicated. Antiviral medications such as valacyclovir can be used during outbreaks, and topical acyclovir ointment can be applied locally.

Regular exercise and consuming medications that enhance the immune system can help reduce the recurrence of this disease. If one frequently stays up late or consumes spicy and irritative food, the likelihood of recurrence increases. Moreover, this disease is highly contagious during outbreaks and can be transmitted to others through sexual contact.

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What does it mean when blisters appear on a man's reproductive organ?

Blisters in the male genital area are mostly genital herpes. This is caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus type 2 and is clinically a sexually transmitted disease. It is generally contracted through direct sexual contact. Once this disease occurs, it is generally not possible to completely eradicate it, and the virus will be carried for life. During an outbreak, antiviral medications can be used for treatment, such as taking oral acyclovir tablets and applying acyclovir ointment. Recovery generally takes about a week. However, recurrences can occur if immunity decreases or if one consumes spicy and irritating food. Some patients may trigger the disease with every sexual encounter, so it is essential to maintain proper dietary and lifestyle habits. (Use medication under the guidance of a doctor)

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Can the genital herpes virus appear in the mouth?

Genital herpes virus refers to the herpes simplex virus, which is divided into Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 virus mainly causes infections of the skin and mucous membranes outside the genital and anal regions, but infections can also be caused by Type 2 virus. Type 2 virus primarily causes infections of the skin and mucous membranes of the genitals and anal area, although a minority of cases can also be caused by Type 1 virus. When herpes simplex virus Type 1 or Type 2 infects the mouth, it can lead to herpetic gingivostomatitis and herpetic pharyngitis.

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Are genital herpes and shingles caused by the same virus?

Genital herpes and shingles are caused by different viruses. Genital herpes is an infection with the herpes simplex virus, most often type 2 and in rare cases type 1; the causative agent of shingles is the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox, hence the two viruses are completely different. Another important characteristic is that herpes simplex virus infections tend to recur, especially during periods of low immunity, fever, or fatigue, whereas varicella-zoster virus infection can provide lasting immunity, with most people experiencing it only once in their lifetime, and only a very few with low immunity experiencing it more than once.

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Can people with genital herpes get married?

Currently, there is no law in the country stating that individuals with genital herpes cannot get married. Therefore, people with genital herpes can marry. However, we strongly advise that patients should inform their prospective spouses about their condition truthfully and clearly, in order to gain their understanding and cooperation and to avoid potential problems in future marital life.

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Is genital herpes incurable forever?

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease characterized by its tendency to recur frequently. It often flares up when the body's resistance is low, during sleep deprivation, fatigue, or after drinking alcohol. Genital herpes is not incurable; it is generally treated with oral antiviral medications such as acyclovir, famciclovir, or valacyclovir. Topical applications, like acyclovir cream or penciclovir gel, can also be used. Recovery generally takes about a week. For those who suffer from frequent recurrences, oral immunomodulatory drugs such as thymopentin or pidotimod can be taken. Additionally, it’s important to exercise, avoid alcohol, and enhance the body's resistance to potentially achieve gradual recovery.