Herpes simplex virus is a contagious infection that causes painful sores during outbreaks. Two types of the herpes virus exist -- herpes type 1, or HSV-1, and herpes type 2, or HSV-2. HSV-1 usually affects the area around the mouth, and HSV-2 causes symptoms in the genital area. The virus enters the body through direct contact -- usually through kissing or sexual contact -- with a person infected with the virus. After the initial herpes outbreak, the virus remains in the body and may cause repeated outbreaks. Antiviral medications can help speed healing time during an outbreak, but there is no cure of the herpes virus.
Step 1
Wait approximately one to two weeks after exposure to the virus before looking for signs of the infection. Some individuals -- up to 25 percent of those infected -- may never show signs or symptoms of the infection, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Step 2
Analyze a blood sample to test for HSV antibodies to detect the presence of the virus in the body. A polymerase chain reaction test on the blood may also help determine which type of the virus the individual contracted, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 3
Look for signs of herpes around the mouth and the genitals. The signs and symptoms of herpes will appear in the area where the virus entered the body.
Step 4
Feel for tingling or a burning sensation on the skin surrounding the mouth or the genitals. The virus may cause these symptoms in the prodrome phase of the outbreak.
Step 5
Watch for a reddening area of skin around the mouth or genitals that appears where the numbness, tingling or burning occurred.
Step 6
Observe the reddened areas to look for small red bumps or blister formation. The bumps and blisters may appear during the herpes outbreak. The painful blisters rupture and cause a bleeding, oozing ulcer to form. The ulcers create a scab and heal within a couple of weeks.
Step 7
Inspect the area round the eyes for any signs of the virus. Herpes may transfer to the eye can cause symptom on the cornea such as pain, redness and sensitivity to light, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library Home Edition.
Step 8
Monitor for flu-like symptoms. The herpes virus may cause signs and symptoms such as a fever and swollen glands, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
