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HERPES
Genital herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. The initial herpes outbreak may occur within the first month of exposure to the virus, although some people may carry the virus for a long period of time without getting any sores. The first outbreak of genital herpes may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms with small blister-like sores around the genitals or rectum.
What to do if you think you may have herpes:
- See a health care practitioner immediately if you have any sore spots on or near the genitals.
- Most practitioners will prescribe a medication to decrease the symptoms of herpes.
- Keep the affected area as clean and dry as possible.
- Do not have intercourse until the sores are completely gone and new skin has healed.
- Talk to your sexual partner(s) about herpes. Your health provider can give you tips on how to talk about herpes.
- Your partner(s) should also have an exam.
- Always use condoms during intercourse and/or dental dams during oral sex.
- Always wash your hands thoroughly after touching a sore to prevent the spread of sores.
- If you are pregnant, tell your health practitioner if you have had lesions or if you have been diagnosed with herpes.
For more information:
The Herpes Resource Center from the American Social Health Association provides comprehensive information on herpes simplex virus with educational materials, links, question and answer forum, and newsletter: http://www.ashastd.org/hrc/.
A state-by-state listing of local support groups can be found at:
http://www.herpes.com/supportgroups.shtml,
National Herpes Hotline 919-361-8488.
The Centers for Disease Control: www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/stdfact-herpes.htm,
National STD Hotline 1-800-227-8922.
The Seattle-King County Department of Public Health Family Planning/STD Program www.metrokc.gov/health/apu/std/herpes.htm, also has information in Spanish: HIV/STD Hotline 206-205-STDS and Herpes Hotline 206-223-3272.
University of Washington Virology Research Clinic 206-720-4340 has the latest information about new treatment, management of herpes, and clinical trials.
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