• HSV-1 refers to oral herpes, and HSV-2 refers to genital herpes, but it
    is possible to have an outbreak of either type in either location.

  • Herpes is officially known as HSV, or herpes simplex virus.

  • Athletes who participate in skin-to-skin contact sports sometimes
    develop HSV-1 sores on the face and body.  This is known as herpes
    gladiatorum or "mat herpes."

  • Approximately 100 million Americans are infected with HSV-1 (oral
    herpes).

  • Approximately 50 million Americans are infected with HSV-2 (genital
    herpes).

  • Approximately 80% of persons having a first episode caused by HSV-2
    will have at least one recurrence, while only 50% of persons with HSV-
    1 will experience a recurrence.

  • It is possible to transmit infection even if there are no obvious blisters,
    sores, or other symptoms.

  • A blood test can only tell that you have been infected with the herpes
    virus in the past.  It cannot tell you:

                   - which part of your body is infected
                   - whether you will develop any symptoms of genital herpes
                   - if symptoms you have experienced are due to herpes

  • Doctors often don't test for genital herpes, even during a standard STD
    workup, unless you ask them to.