Can HSV-2 be caused by HSV-1?

HSV-2 infection is widespread throughout the world and is almost exclusively sexually transmitted, causing genital herpes. HSV-2 is the main cause of genital herpes, which can also be caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Infection with HSV-2 is lifelong and incurable.

What triggers Type 2 herpes?

HSV-2. This is the type that commonly causes genital herpes. The virus spreads through sexual contact and skin-to-skin contact. HSV-2 is very common and highly contagious, whether or not you have an open sore.

Does HSV-1 mean I have herpes?

HSV-1 is a subtype of the herpes virus that typically causes oral herpes. This is also known as cold sores. HSV-1 can also cause genital blisters that appear very similar to the genital blisters associated with HSV-2 virus. Any herpes sore or blister — regardless of its subtype — can burn, itch, or tingle.

Do HSV-1 and HSV-2 look different?

Under a microscope, HSV-1 and HSV-2 look very similar and share near-identical characteristics and behaviours. They have the same biological origins but the strands mutated and diverged at some point in the past to target different parts of the body.

Is HSV-1 better than HSV-2?

With an efficient herpes treatment, outbreaks can be easily and quickly brought under control. While it’s an annoying condition, herpes rarely has any serious complications. That said, despite genital herpes carrying more social stigma and outbreaks happening more often, HSV-1 is potentially more dangerous.

What triggers an HSV-1 outbreak?

Sharing lip balm or lipstick. Sharing a toothbrush, razor, towel, or any other object that may have come into contact with the herpes virus. Touching an open cold sore. Oral sex (it’s possible to get cold sores from giving oral sex to someone with herpes in the genital area)

Does everyone have HSV-1?

According to a recent report by the World Health Organization, 2 out of 3 people under the age of 50 have Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1), more commonly known as oral herpes. That’s a staggering 3.7 billion people with a (currently) incurable virus.