Herpes

Herpes infections can be prevented by avoiding direct contact with sores or ulcers of someone who has an active herpes infection - either on the mouth or on the genitals. Herpes is contracted through direct skin contact (not necessarily in the genital area) with an infected person, and less frequently by indirect contact. A few days after you are exposed to the virus, herpes sores usually form around the affected area. The sores usually start as one or more groups of tiny, clear blisters with a red base. When they break open, they form pink or red sores that usually crust over and heal within 2 to 12 days. The virus travels through tiny breaks in the skin (or mucous membranes in the mouth and genital areas). Currently, there is no treatment to cure herpes, however, there are medications to treat symptoms and control outbreaks.