Herpes Information Herpes Genital herpes is a chronic, lifelong viral infection. An estimated 40 million people have it. Each year, about 500,000 new people get symptomatic herpes. There are even more people who have no symptoms. Symptoms Symptoms vary.
Most people have no noticeable symptoms.
If you do get symptoms, you'll probably notice them 2 to 20 days after having sex with someone who is infected. Early symptoms may include a burning sensation in the genitals, lower back pain, pain when urinating, and flu-like symptoms. A few days later, small red bumps may appear in the genital area. Later, these bumps can develop into painful blisters, which then crust over, form a scab, and heal. Sometimes the diagnosis can be made by physical examination alone.