Genital herpes is a common condition which is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two viral types, HSV1 and HSV2, both of which contribute to oral and genital infections. HSV is readily inactivated at room temperature and by drying, so transmission is by close physical contact, either sexual or genital. Most people acquire HSV subclinically through an infected contact. After the primary infection, the virus lies dormant in local sensory ganglia and reactivates intermittently resulting in lesions or asymptomatic shedding of virus.
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References
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British Association for Sexual Health and HIV. Guidelines on management of genital herpes (2007) Accessed via www.bashh.org/documents/115/115.pdf [date last accessed 09.10.2009].
Herpes Viruses Association. The facts about herpes simplex patient information leaflet. Accessed via www.herpes.org.uk/pil.html [date last accessed 09.10.2009].
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