After an initial bout with herpes, the virus will enter an inactive phase. In genital herpes the virus retreats to the lumbo-sacral ganglion at the base of the spine. Here the virus can remain inactive without causing any damage. At some point it travels back down the nerve cells to cause a recurring outbreak at the site of the initial infection. The reasons for recurrences are not completely understood.
Recurrences are usually less severe and of shorter duration than the initial infection.
Sometimes the lesions of a recurrence can be seen but there will be little or no pain or discomfort involved. Transmission and Prevention Oral and genital herpes are most contagious when the virus is in its active phase. This active phase begins just before and continues throughout the entire time any signs of sores, lesions, or scabs are present. Symptoms before an outbreak are called the prodrome. Those who experience a herpes virus prodrome describe various signs and sensations.