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A virus, the herpes simplex virus (HSV), causes herpes. The herpes simplex viruses are double-stranded DNA viruses that only infect humans. There are two types of herpes simplex viruses: Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is usually associated with infections of the lips, mouth, and face. It is the most common herpes simplex virus among the general population and is usually acquired in childhood. It often causes lesions inside the mouth such as cold sores or fever blisters and is transmitted by contact with infected saliva. Herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) is sexually transmitted and is usually associated with genital ulcers or sores -- however individuals may harbor HSV-2 and not have developed any symptoms. Cross-infection of type 1 and 2 viruses may occur from oral-genital contact. It is estimated that a large majority of humans will experience oral or genital herpes. About 50 percent to 80 percent of the adult population in the United States has oral herpes. About one in five adults in the United States has genital herpes, however as many as 90 percent are unaware that they have the virus. |
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