Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 are the two main viruses that lead to various painful infectious conditions in human beings.
Herpes Simplex I mostly results in oro-facial lesions in humans.
Studies indicate that oral Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) is the most easily acquired type of herpes infection. It is the first herpes simplex virus encountered. By adolescence and adulthood, about 50% Americans have HSV-1 antibodies in their blood. By the age of 50, about 80-90% Americans develop HSV-1 antibodies. Several researches worldwide have yielded no permanent cure yet. Efforts to bring out a vaccine are still in progress.
Meanwhile, there are several anti viral drugs and therapies that one can resort to. One of the most widely trusted preventive medication for herpes is Medavir. As one of the most popular and most cost effective ways of preventing a herpes outbreak, this medication has no known side effects.
Herpes Simplex Virus 1: Site of infection
The primary difference between HSV1 and 2 is in where they typically establish latency in the body or their "site of preference." HSV-1 usually establishes latency in the trigeminal ganglion, a collection of nerve cells near the ear. From there, it tends to recur on the lower lip, mouth or face.Herpes Simplex Virus I is transmitted by contact with infected saliva.
Herpes Simplex I: Complications
HSV-1 often causes lesions, such as cold sores (fever blisters). However, in certain cases the infection spreads, resulting in serious conditions. Other complications arising from HSV-1 include:
* Herpes Whitlow: HSV-1 is the usual cause of herpes whitlow, an infection on the fingers.
* Herpes gladiatorum: or "wrestler's herpes," is a herpes infection on the chest or face.
* Genital Herpes: HSV type 1 can infect the genitals, usually via oral-genital sexual contact with a person who has oral HSV-1 infection.
* Blindness: In some cases, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 can recur spontaneously in the eye (especially the conjunctiva and cornea), causing ocular herpes. This is a potentially serious infection, which can lead to blindness.
* Brain Damage: In very rare cases, HSV-1 can spread spontaneously to the brain. The condition is termed herpes encephalitis. This dangerous infection that can even lead to death in certain cases.
With some extra care and precautions, these painful outbreaks of Herpes Simplex I can be prevented. On the other hand, negligence can trigger serious infections, including genital herpes, mostly associated with the type 2 virus. There are many fraudulent companies claiming to provide permanent cure for herpes. One should, therefore, be especially careful while choosing herpes medication.
