Herpes, Herpes Simplex Virus
Herpes is an infection caused by two different but closely related viruses — herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or cold sores and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) or genital herpes. Both are easy to catch. They have similar symptoms (blisters or sores) and both can occur on different parts of the body. When the infection is on the mouth, it is called oral herpes. When it is on or near the sex organs, it is called genital herpes. There is no cure for herpes. Treatments are available to speed up the healing of the genital sores.
For more information on symptoms of herpes, how it is spread, how it is treated, how it is prevented and how many cases have occurred in Minnesota, see below:
Herpes Basics
- STD Facts: Herpes
MDH overview of herpes: signs and symptoms, transmission, complications, prevention and treatment. (Download PDF versions below, formatted for print) - Genital Herpes
This brochure provides the basics about the transmission, recognition, prevention and treatment of genital herpes. The brochure may be downloaded for duplication purposes.
- Programs to Prevent
and Reduce the Risks of Sexually Transmitted Infections and Diseases:
Minnesota Statute § 121A.23 for STD/HIV Education in Schools
Statute requiring HIV and STD education to be provided in the classroom within Minnesota's school districts.
- Risk Factors
for Progressive Hearing Loss for Infants
MDH listing of related factors for the loss of hearing in infants including mother's infections during pregnancy, such as herpes and syphilis.
- Risk Factors
for Hearing Loss at Birth
MDH listing of related factors for the loss of hearing in infants including mother's infections during pregnancy, such as herpes and syphilis.
Getting Tested for Herpes
Herpes in the News
- National STD Awareness
Month
Tip sheets on how to plan activities for National STD Awareness Month developed by the MDH.
External Links
- Herpes
Disease Information
CDC overview of herpes: signs and symptoms, transmission, complications, prevention and treatment. Attention: Non-MDH link
- Information To
Live By: Herpes
American Social Health Association overview of herpes: signs and symptoms, transmission, complications, prevention and treatment. Attention: Non-MDH link
- STD Treatment
Guidelines
CDC’s latest treatment guidelines for STDs. Attention: Non-MDH link
- STD Image Library
Image library of STD symptoms developed by the CDC. Attention: Non-MDH link
- Minnesota Family Planning
and STD Hotline
Toll-free hotline for confidential information about the prevention, testing locations and treatment of STDs in Minnesota. (1-800-78-FACTS)
Attention: Non-MDH link
Content Notice: This site contains HIV or STD prevention messages that may not be appropriate for all audiences. Since HIV and other STDs are spread primarily through sexual practices or by sharing needles, prevention messages and programs may address these topics. If you are not seeking such information or may be offended by such materials, please exit this web site.
Spotlight
- wraptesttreat.com
Attn: Non-MDH link - NoMasSTDs.com
Attn: Non-MDH link
If you have questions or comments about this page, use our IDEPC Comment Form or call 651-201-5414 for the MDH Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Prevention and Control Division.
