Herpes is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Herpes simplex virus type 1 causes herpes labialis, while infection with herpes simplex virus type 2 causes genital herpes. Herpes infection causes painful, itchy ulcers and blisters. It is very common and very easily spread. MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health, indicates that most Americans are exposed to herpes labialis before age 20, while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that 16.2 percent of 14- to 49-year-olds are infected with genital herpes. Although symptoms of herpes infections can be very painful and pronounced, most individuals are asymptomatic and have no idea that they are infected.
Lips
Herpes labialis infects the lips and mouth. It usually results from infection with herpes simplex type 1, but HSV-2 can cause herpes labialis from oro-genital contact. The initial outbreak usually occurs within one to three weeks after exposure to the virus. Recurrent lesions may occur occasionally throughout life, but these outbreaks are usually milder. Ulcers and lesions of the lips can cause distress because they are painful and difficult to hide.
Genitals
Genital herpes infections are usually caused by exposure to herpes simplex virus type 2 during sexual contact. However, HSV-1 can also cause genital lesions from oro-genital contact. The primary outbreak of genital herpes generally occurs within two weeks of exposure. Blisters and ulcers form on the genital area. The lesions crust over and heal within two to four weeks. The first outbreak is usually the most severe, but recurrences may occur periodically throughout life.
Fingers
Herpes infections of the fingers are known as herpetic whitlow. These occur from touching active genital or oral lesions when there is a break in the skin. Herpes infections are spread easily, and herpetic whitlow often results from scratching the itchy ulcers. According to Skinsight, 60 percent of herpetic whitlow infections are caused by HSV-1, while 40 percent result from HSV-2 infections.
