Herpes is a sexually transmitted viral disease caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus. Two strains of this virus have been identified - HSV I and HSV2.

The HSV-I virus is known to cause oral herpes. Oral herpes is a disease that affects the mouth. Cold sores appear on the lips and on and in the mouth. It is a communicable disease that is prevalent among children, though it is not uncommon among adults as well. The outbreak of the disease results in painful sores, swollen and bleeding gums and sometimes a white coating on the tongue.

The symptoms of herpes are not easily identifiable .The result is that most people don't even realize they are suffering from the disease and unintentionally spread it to non-infected persons through physical contact.

It is easier to prevent Herpes than it is to cure it. It is important that infected parents do not kiss their children, for this could spread the virus. Also, it is better not to send the infected children to school till the attack subsides. It is also essential to keep the utensils of the patient separate from those of the other family members. Once the disease sets in, people should take antiviral drugs such as acyclovir.

Genital Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease usually caused by the HSV-2 virus. The blisters appear on the genital area, vaginal area, penis, anal opening, and on the buttocks or thighs. The symptoms of genital herpes include a feeling of itching or burning in the genital area, pain in the legs or buttocks. In case of women, there is a fluid discharge from the vagina.

The first attack of the HSV-1 and HSV-2 virus is called the primary episode. The symptoms set in within two to ten days of the infection and last for about two to three weeks. After the attack, the virus remains dormant for some time in the nerve cells and then gets reactivated, and another attack results. The frequency and severity of the attacks diminish with the passage of time.