herpes simplex virus type 2

Also known as: HSV-2

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Last updated

July 15, 2026

Quick Summary

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is a sexually transmitted infection that primarily causes genital herpes. It is one of two strains of the herpes simplex virus, with HSV-1 typically causing oral infections like cold sores.12

HSV-2 is highly contagious and can be transmitted even when the infected person has no visible symptoms. Initial symptoms include pain or itching at the infection site, followed by blister-like lesions. These can merge into larger, painful sores. In females, the infection can occur on the vulva, cervix, or vagina, and in males, on the penis.12

While there is no cure, antiviral treatments like acyclovir can help reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. Using condoms and avoiding sexual contact during active outbreaks can reduce the risk of transmission. HSV-2 infection in pregnant women poses a serious risk to newborns.12

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herpes simplex
HSV-2
The sexually transmitted disease genital herpes is associated primarily with HSV-2. The virus is highly contagious and may be transmitted by individuals who are lifelong carriers but who remain asymptomatic (and may not even know they are infected). Infections are most often acquired through…
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The sexually transmitted disease genital herpes is associated primarily with HSV-2. The virus is highly contagious and may be transmitted by individuals who are lifelong carriers but who remain asymptomatic (and may not even know they are infected). Infections are most often acquired through…
Read More

herpesvirus
… virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Whereas HSV-1 is transmitted orally and is responsible for cold sores and fever blisters, typically occurring around the mouth, HSV-2 is transmitted sexually and is the main cause of the condition known as genital herpes. HSV-1 may also infect…
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… virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Whereas HSV-1 is transmitted orally and is responsible for cold sores and fever blisters, typically occurring around the mouth, HSV-2 is transmitted sexually and is the main cause of the condition known as genital herpes. HSV-1 may also infect…
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infectious disease
Viruses
HSV-2 is associated most often with herpetic lesions of the genital area. The involved area includes the vagina, cervix, vulva, and, occasionally, the urethra in females and the head of the penis in males; it may also cause an infection at the site of an…
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HSV-2 is associated most often with herpetic lesions of the genital area. The involved area includes the vagina, cervix, vulva, and, occasionally, the urethra in females and the head of the penis in males; it may also cause an infection at the site of an…
Read More