Unfortunately, recent studies show that some people may be contagious when they have no symptoms. Mucus membranes of the mouth, anus, vagina, penis and the eyes are especially susceptible to infection. Definitive diagnosis may not be possible if the sores are dried or scabbed by the time you see a clinician. If you think you have herpes, it is important to have a diagnosis early in the outbreak. Symptoms can be relieved and the number of recurrences reduced with drugs.
Condoms offer some protection against the virus between outbreaks.
HIV is the most dangerous sexually transmitted infection, and it affects people of all ages. There may be no symptoms for 10 years or more. There are blood tests to detect HIV antibodies. However, AIDS is fatal. They cause a variety of warts and other conditions and can remain in the system for life.