The name is based on the epidemiology of the virus infection which was shown to become latent after a primary infection and then become reactive in later years. The complete sequence is known. HSV-1 is primarily associated with oral and ocular lesions. HSV-2 is primarily associated with genital and anal lesions. Incidence of genital herpes has increased sharply during the last few decades due to sexual promiscuity and oral contraceptives.
Human infection is virtually universal - most adults are seropositive.
Antiviral agents such as Acyclovir, Valaciclovir or Famciclovir can be used to treat HSV infections. Herpes Simplex Virus Pneumonia. Submit case studies to Chuck Regeski . This webpage was designed and authored by Northern California ASM, which is fully responsible for its contents. Please send comments or corrections to Chuck Regeski .