![Herpes.jpg](https://steemitimages.com/DQmSsCh1f4W1p5qmvFFpNb4DZQNQRLvrMJ7qAqLB94m4LH7/Herpes.jpg)

A contagious virus disease caused by Herpes simplex virus (HSV), which affects skin and mucous membranes. Herpes appears in redness and groups of small fluid blisters. There may be pain, burning and itching. The liquid-filled blisters break and become wounds that heal up in two to three weeks without scarring. Herpes is infected with close physical contact and often by intercourse. Herpes genitalia appears on the genitals, at the rectum opening, and with oral sex a cold sore can infect the genitals.

There are two kinds of HSV, both of which can attack skin and mucous membranes all over the body:

HSV-1, the most common form, is usually limited to mouth and lips.

HSV-2 is especially found on the genitals.

About 80 percent of the adult population has antibodies to HSV-1 in their blood, about 25 percent have antibodies to HSV-2.