Herpes Guide: HSV-1 and HSV-2 Basics

Herpes is one of the most common infections in the world, and most people who have it don't know. This guide explains the basics in plain language and links to every related question our doctors have answered over the years. If you've just been diagnosed, start here.

This is general information, not medical advice. It does not replace a visit with a doctor or clinic.

Contents

What is herpes?

Herpes is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types. HSV-1 mostly causes oral herpes (cold sores) but can also cause genital herpes. HSV-2 mainly causes genital herpes. The WHO estimates that about 3.8 billion people under 50 have HSV-1 and about 520 million people aged 15 to 49 have HSV-2.

How does it spread?

Herpes spreads through skin-to-skin contact with an infected area, often during kissing or vaginal, anal or oral sex, and through saliva or genital fluids. It can spread when no sores are visible. CDC says you will not get herpes from toilet seats, bedding, swimming pools or objects such as towels and silverware.

What are the symptoms?

Most people have no symptoms or very mild ones. When symptoms happen, they often start with tingling, itching or burning, then blisters that break into sores and crust over. A first outbreak can bring fever, body aches and swollen glands. Repeat outbreaks are usually shorter and milder, and often happen less over time.

How is it diagnosed?

A provider may diagnose herpes by looking at sores and by swabbing a fresh sore, which is the most reliable test. Blood tests look for antibodies but have limits, and cannot tell you when or from whom you got the virus. See our Herpes Testing Guide.

Can it be treated?

There is no cure, but prescription antiviral medicines (such as acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir) can shorten outbreaks, and taking medicine daily can reduce outbreaks and lower the chance of passing herpes on.

Pregnancy

If you are pregnant, tell your provider if you have ever had herpes or symptoms of it. Herpes passed to a newborn can be very serious, and your provider may suggest medicine late in pregnancy. Don’t kiss a newborn if you have a cold sore.

All doctor answers on this topic (156)

Questions readers have sent in over the years, answered by herpes.com’s contributing doctors. Answers reflect each doctor’s view at the time they were written; for current guidance, see the sources below and talk to your own provider.

Pregnancy, babies and children (15)

Eyes, nerves and complications (14)

Treatment and medicine questions (7)

HSV-1, HSV-2 and related viruses (20)

Dormancy, timing and shedding (24)

How herpes spreads (and how it doesn't) (17)

Symptoms and “is this herpes?” (59)

You can also read personal experiences shared by readers.

More guides

Sources

  1. World Health Organization – Herpes simplex virus fact sheet
  2. CDC – About Genital Herpes
  3. CDC – Screening for Genital Herpes
  4. Planned Parenthood – Herpes
  5. American Sexual Health Association – Fast facts about HSV
  6. MedlinePlus (NIH) – Herpes (HSV) Test
  7. MedlinePlus (NIH) – Pregnancy and herpes
  8. NHS – Cold sores
  9. NHS – Genital herpes

Medical disclaimer: The information on herpes.com is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition. Read our full disclaimer. Guide published October 2026.

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