Two types of herpes simplex virus (HSV) cause skin problems. The common cold sore is usually caused by type 1, and type 2 usually infects the genital area. Occasionally type 1 herpes simplex virus can be found in the genital area. Genital infections- genital herpes-usually begin 3 to 7 days after exposure. The person may note an area of burning, tingling, or pain on the genitalia: then small, grouped blisters, which ulcerate, appear. Associated with these lesions may be severe pain, swollen lymph nodes, and constitutional symptoms such as fever. When the lesions appear on the cervix or vaginal wall, there are freruently no symptoms.

The primary infection usually persists for several weeks, heals spontaneously, then may recur. Recurrent infection are usually milder and shorter than primary infections. However, some persons may have recurrences monthly, which may be disabling. Serious complication are rare in men, but infected women can transmit the infection to the newborn at the time of delivery. Neonatal infection is often fatal or, if the infant survives, may lead to lifelong brain damage. Genital herpes is also associated with cervical cancer, but a cause and effect relationship has not been established.

Genital herpes is highly variable, and the diagnosis can be confirmed only by isolating the virus by tissue culture. For pregnant women who have active lesions at the time of delivery, many experts recommend cesarean section to prevent transmission to the newborn. Estimates of the incidence of genital herpes vary widely, but virtually all who have studied this STD agree that it is a very serious public health problem.

Current control strategies beyond careful counseling of patients have not been developed for this infection. Major research efforts are under way to develop a definitive treatment and to understand more completely the immunologic relationship betweem the host and infectious agent.