Herpes

Herpes is a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Many people with genital herpes don’t have any visible signs or symptoms.

There are two types of herpes and both can cause painful blisters around the genital area, mouth and face.

Herpes is spread through skin-to-skin contact with someone who has the virus.
Outbreaks often heal on their own, but Herpes is usually passed on during an outbreak, so it’s best to refrain from sexual activity when spots and ulcers are present.

You can only test for herpes when blisters or sores are visible. Learn more here.

• It’s from the same virus family as chickenpox. There is no cure for Herpes. The virus stays in your body forever, but outbreaks usually get less frequent over time.
• Herpes cannot be spread by sharing baths, towels, toilet seats, or cutlery — the virus dies quickly off the skin.
• You can pass herpes on even without symptoms, but blisters and sores are highly infectious.
• If you’re pregnant and have symptoms, tell your healthcare professional — herpes can sometimes be passed on during birth.
• Using condoms for all types of sex helps reduce risk.
• If you test positive, you should inform your sexual partners. Sexual health clinics can help with this.

• Testing is available at sexual health clinics and some GPs – but only when sores are present. It involves brushing a swab over the blisters which may sting a little, but shouldn’t be painful
• Once you have herpes, it stays in your body — but antiviral medication can help manage outbreaks and speed up healing. Treatment is prescription only and is available from GPs and sexual health clinics.

To find your local sexual health clinic or GP, you can use our find a service tool.