25/11/2021
Thereโs significant social stigma and shame associated with herpes, but itโs far more common than you think.
Ge***al herpes is by far the most common s*xually transmitted infection (STI), affecting 1 in 8 people. Here are some little known facts you should be aware of:
- There are two types of herpes, HSV-1 and HSV-2. Generally speaking, HSV-1 is responsible for cold sores, and HSV-2 usually causes ge***al sores.
Many people donโt realise that HSV-1 can cause ge***al ulcers as well, though these tend to be less severe and less likely to recur.
- A person can be exposed to the virus and pass it to someone else without ever having symptoms. Although the virus is more active when there are sores, asymptomatic shedding is probably how most people get herpes.
- Only one out of four people who test positive for ge***al herpes know theyโve had the virus.
- Once you got it, youโve got it for life.
Suspect you may have had herpes? What should you do?
If youโve got or had ge***al ulcers, you should see your doctor and get tested.
If your test confirms either type of ge***al herpes, future partners can have a blood test that tells them if theyโve already been exposed to the same strain of virus.
If your partner tests negative, you should be taking antiviral therapy daily to help prevent infecting your partner.
Although daily antiviral tablets decrease the chances of spreading the virus, thereโs no guarantee, so itโs best to have a frank conversation uwith a new s*xual partner.
On the other hand, If youโve never had ge***al herpes or symptoms, be kind to your fellow humans and don't make judgements. It's yet another stigma that shouldnโt exist.
