The Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) can be broken down into two different types. HSV-1 is typically oral herpes where HSV-2 is almost always in the genital region. Without going into all the mind numbing medical details, we figured that we would break it down and explain what the difference is.
Both types share some similarities, such as:
- Transmitted by skin to skin contact.
- Look almost identical under a microscope
- Person may not have any symptoms
Oral Herpes or HSV-1
Oral herpes or HSV-1 is typically associated with those annoying cold sores. This is because cold sores are almost always caused by the herpes virus. They are not to be confused with canker sores, which are totally different. It is estimated that somewhere up to 80% of people have HSV-1 antibodies. The virus usually affects children and remains dormant later on in life. For this reason, it is probably best to keep Aunt Maggie from laying that big smooch on your little one if she is showing signs of a cold sore.
Oral herpes can also go below the belt. If you perform oral sex on your partner, they can be infected with HSV-1 down there. Once there, it can act the same as if they had genital herpes and be able to pass it on to another partner. While not too common, if you have HSV-1, you can still pass the virus even while showing no signs of a cold sore.
Genital Herpes or HSV-2
Genital Herpes or HSV-2 is the one that most people associate getting from through sex as it affects the genital region. While both viruses can have the same effect, this is the one with the bigger stigma associated with it. Like oral, genital herpes is also caused by skin to skin contact and can be easily spread.
If you have genital herpes, you may not show any signs of an outbreak. The signs can be so mild that experts say two thirds of the infected people have no idea they are infected.
While wearing a condom is prudent, it does not fully protect you from getting or passing along herpes. This is due to the fact that a condom cannot cover the entire area that is exposed.
Can you have HSV1 and HSV2 in the same place?
If you have HSV-2 genitally, it is unlikely that you will also get HSV-1 there as well. The opposite is also true. When you have one type of herpes simplex, the body will produce antibodies and some of those are also effective against the other type.
If you have HSV-1 orally, you probably will not also get it in the genitals. Almost all people with genital HSV-1 never had any prior herpes infection.
While there have been a few very rare cases, HSV-2 typically does not affect the oral region.
What does all this mean?
Just use common sense. If you suspect something is not right, get tested. If you are sporting a cold sore on your lip, realize that it is most likely herpes and that you can pass it to somebody else.
Still confused? HWerks has all types and great forums where you can get answers quickly!