Herpes is a widespread viral infection, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), that manifests as painful blisters or ulcers, commonly around the mouth or genitals. It affects a significant portion of the population. Many people wonder if herpes is a genetic condition passed down through families, a common misconception that needs clarification.
Understanding Herpes: Not a Genetic Condition
Herpes is not a genetic condition inherited through DNA. Instead, it is a viral infection caused by two distinct types of the herpes simplex virus: HSV type 1 (HSV-1) and HSV type 2 (HSV-2). Unlike genetic conditions such as cystic fibrosis or hemophilia, which result from mutations passed from parents to children, herpes is acquired from external sources.
HSV-1 is primarily associated with oral herpes, often called cold sores, while HSV-2 typically causes genital herpes. Both types of the virus can establish a latent infection within nerve tissues, remaining dormant after initial infection. The virus can reactivate periodically, leading to outbreaks.
Although herpes itself is not genetic, research suggests that a person’s genes may influence their susceptibility to experiencing frequent outbreaks once infected with HSV. For example, studies have identified specific gene variations that can affect how often someone develops cold sores after HSV-1 infection. Environmental factors like fever, wind, and sunburn, alongside viral strain and the burden of latent infection, can also play a role in triggering reactivation.
How Herpes Spreads and is Managed
Herpes spreads through direct person-to-person contact. HSV-1 is mainly transmitted through contact with sores, saliva, or skin surfaces in or around the mouth, often via oral-to-oral contact like kissing or sharing items that touch the mouth. HSV-2 is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, involving direct contact with genital or anal surfaces, skin, sores, or fluids from an infected individual.
Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can cause genital herpes. Transmission is most likely when active sores or blisters are present, but the virus can also spread during periods of “asymptomatic shedding,” when no visible symptoms are present. In rare instances, herpes can be transmitted from a mother to her child during childbirth, potentially causing neonatal herpes.
Once contracted, the herpes simplex virus remains in the body for life, residing in nerve cells and reactivating periodically. While there is no cure for herpes, antiviral medications can help manage symptoms by reducing the duration and severity of outbreaks. These medications can also be taken daily as suppressive therapy to reduce the frequency of outbreaks and lower the risk of transmission to others. Preventing transmission involves avoiding direct contact with sores, using barrier methods like condoms consistently during sexual activity, and practicing good hygiene such as frequent handwashing.