There are two types of herpes infections, oral herpes and genital herpes; both are contagious. The most insidious fact about herpes is that it can be an invisible virus; it is possible for a person to have and to spread either type of herpes virus and not even know that he or she has herpes.
The virus that infects a person with oral herpes is named herpes simplex type 1. The virus that infects a person with genital herpes is named herpes simplex type 2. Both types of herpes are spread by direct contact with an infected area or by contact with a body fluid from that area.
There is no known cure for either type of herpes; it is permanent, but not always active. A person with oral herpes or genital herpes may have one or several outbreaks in his or her life.
Oral Herpes and It’s Symptoms
Oral herpes symptoms include blisters or cold sores on the lips and in the mouth that can develop into painful ulcers. If the gums are infected they will become red and puffy. Oral herpes may also cause a fever, aching muscles and swollen glands in the neck. An initial outbreak may last from two to three weeks.
Oral herpes is very common among children....