Dr. Mohta says that the best treatment for herpes involves antiviral medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir to reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks. These can be taken during an outbreak or as a daily suppressive therapy to prevent recurrences. Keeping the affected area clean and dry also helps. The affected area might sometimes develop secondary bacteria infection, especially during the primary episode of herpes, warranting the use of topical or oral antibiotics.