Herpes simplex virus type 1
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), pronounced as /ˈhɜːrpiːz ˈsɪmplɛks ˈvaɪrəs taɪp wʌn/, is a virus that causes cold sores and fever blisters on the mouth and around the face. It is one of the two types of Herpes simplex virus, the other being Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which typically causes genital herpes.
Etymology
The term "herpes" comes from the Greek word "herpein," which means "to creep," referring to the nature of the virus that creeps along nerves. "Simplex" is Latin for "simple," referring to the straightforward skin symptoms caused by the virus.
Transmission
HSV-1 is primarily transmitted by oral-to-oral contact, but can also be spread to the genital area through oral-genital contact. The virus can be spread even when an individual does not have visible sores or any symptoms.
Symptoms
Symptoms of HSV-1 may include painful blisters or open sores in or around the mouth, often referred to as cold sores or fever blisters. In some cases, HSV-1 can cause encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain.
Treatment
There is currently no cure for HSV-1, but antiviral medications can help to reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms.
Prevention
Prevention methods include avoiding close contact with individuals who have active lesions, and not sharing personal items that can come in contact with the virus.
See Also
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