Genital herpes, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), can be dormant within the body. After an initial infection, the virus can remain hidden and inactive for extended periods, sometimes for decades, without causing any noticeable symptoms. This allows the virus to persist indefinitely.
Understanding Viral Latency
The term “dormant” in the context of the herpes virus refers to a state known as viral latency. The virus travels along nerve pathways to nerve cells, specifically the sensory nerve ganglia located near the spine, in the lower back for genital herpes.
Once inside these nerve cells, the virus enters a “sleeping” state where it remains inactive. In this latent phase, the virus is not replicating or causing any outward symptoms. This explains why individuals can carry the virus for years without experiencing an outbreak or knowing they are infected. The persistence of the virus in these nerve cells is why there is currently no cure for herpes, as it is not eradicated from the body.
Triggers for Reactivation
Although the herpes virus can remain latent, certain factors can cause it to reactivate and travel back down the nerve pathways to the skin surface, leading to an outbreak of sores or blisters. These triggers vary from person to person and are not always identifiable.
Common triggers include physical or emotional stress, which can suppress the immune system. Illnesses such as fevers, colds, or the flu can also weaken the body’s defenses, allowing the virus to reactivate. Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during menstruation, may also contribute to reactivation. Friction or irritation in the genital area and sun exposure are also potential triggers.
Living with Latent Herpes
Living with a latent herpes virus means understanding its potential for reactivation and transmission. The virus can be present on the skin surface and transmissible even when no visible sores are present, a phenomenon known as asymptomatic shedding. This shedding can occur without symptoms, making consistent safe practices important.
Antiviral medications are available to manage outbreaks, reduce their severity and duration, and can also be used to suppress frequent outbreaks. These medications can also lower the chances of transmitting the virus to a sexual partner. Open communication with partners about one’s herpes status and consistent use of barrier methods like condoms are important strategies to reduce transmission risks, especially considering asymptomatic shedding. Acknowledging the emotional aspect of living with a chronic condition is also part of managing the psychological impact.