Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common infection that can cause painful blisters or ulcers in or around the mouth or genitals. It is treatable but not curable and can be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact or saliva. Learn more about the types, symptoms, treatment and prevention of herpes . Called also fever blisters and cold sores. genital herpes ( herpes genita´lis) herpes simplex of the genitals, a common sexually transmitted disease, usually caused by human herpesvirus 2 but occasionally by human herpesvirus 1. If it is present at term in the pregnant female, it may lead to infection of the neonate (see maternal herpes ). Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus, which can affect the face, mouth, genitals, or other parts of the body. Learn about the different types of herpes , how they are transmitted, diagnosed, and treated, and their prevalence and complications. Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two types, oral herpes and genital herpes , which are usually sexually transmitted. Find out more here.
