Causes of Herpes
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Common causes for contracting genital herpes (HSV-2) include contact with a herpes sore, saliva from someone with oral herpes (HSV-1), genital fluids or skin-to-skin contact.
Understand the common causes behind contracting HSV and get access to prescription antiviral treatment.
Regardless of whether someone is asymptomatic, HSV-2 can still be passed from one person to another.
By understanding what causes HSV-2 and how it is passed from person to person, we can raise awareness and better protect ourselves and loved ones from infection.
What causes herpes?
Genital herpes is most commonly spread through sexual contact with someone who has the virus, which may include vaginal, anal or oral sex.
Research suggests that the cause of genital herpes being one of the most common STIs is due to the fact that you can become infected from a sexual partner who has no visible lesions or is unaware that they are a carrier.
The cause of HSV-2 can also be linked to contact with someone who has HSV-1, commonly known as cold sores. HSV-1 can spread via oral sex, through contact from the mouth to the genitals. Although it is not the most common way to contract the virus, this is why some cases of genital herpes (HSV-2) are due to HSV-1.
How to reduce your risk of infection
If you are sexually active, you will always have a risk of contracting an STI, however there are certain precautions you can take to reduce the risk of infection.
Practising safe sex methods, such as always using a condom, can minimise your chance of being infected. It’s important to note, however, that condoms do not cover all areas around the genitals that may have visible herpes sores.
If your partner has a confirmed case of HSV-2, taking a daily antiviral medication can also reduce your risk of being infected. It is essential that you and your partner talk about the condition and that they discuss treatment options with their healthcare provider.
It’s time to look after your health
At hub.health our medical team is dedicated to helping people manage the symptoms of HSV-2. Start a conversation with our team today and take the first step toward a better quality of life.
Herpes (HSV-2) FAQs
How do I know if I have herpes simplex virus?
Most people who carry the herpes virus are asymptomatic, meaning they have no obvious or visible symptoms. Some people have mild herpes symptoms that can be mistaken for other skin conditions, like pimples or ingrown hairs.
If you’re experiencing small blister-like sores on or around the genitals, this is a sign you may be experiencing a herpes outbreak. An outbreak may be itchy, painful, and accompanied by flu-like symptoms (fever and body aches), a burning sensation when urinating, and fatigue.
Whether you’re asymptomatic or not, the only way to know if you carry the herpes virus is by visiting your healthcare professional for assessment.
What are common symptoms of HSV-2?
Symptoms for genital herpes typically include a group of itchy or painful blisters in the genital area that can evolve into sores. Other HSV-2 symptoms include burning when urinating, difficulty urinating, itching, and painful genitals. Flu-like symptoms of swollen glands, fever, chills, headaches, aches, and fatigue may also arise.
Can I receive a first-time HSV-2 treatment script or only repeats?
The hub.health medical team provides the highest standard of healthcare, and since text-based consults do not provide our team with enough information to determine whether you have HSV-2, unfortunately they can only offer prescriptions and treatments to patients who have already been diagnosed with HSV-2 by another doctor.
Our platform aims to simplify healthcare for those who are already on HSV-2 medication. If you believe you have Herpes Simplex Virus, visit your local GP for assessment.
Am I guaranteed a prescription and treatment for HSV-2?
At hub.health, we assess each patient individually. If our team determines a potential risk related to a specific treatment, or you do not have a confirmed diagnosis of HSV-2, your prescription may not be issued. Your practitioner may provide recommendations for the next steps, including in-person GP visits for further assessment.
Can I speak with my assigned clinician at any time?
Of course! Our online platform enables ongoing support whenever you need it. To chat with your medical team, log into your profile, head to the ‘Products’ tab and select ‘Manage Treatment’. This is where you can message your clinician.
Our team is also available at [email protected]. Drop us a line, anytime.
Learn more about what causes the herpes simplex virus (HSV-2).
Understand the common causes of herpes and how the virus is transmitted from person to person, to reduce risk of infection.
Symptoms
Understand more about the most common symptoms of herpes.
Discover effective treatments to better manage the symptoms and discomfort of herpes outbreaks.
Treatment
Find effective antiviral medication for the treatment of the herpes simplex virus.
Experience convenient healthcare with treatments discreetly packaged and delivered to your door.
Results
Experience effective results with prescription antiviral treatment for herpes.
Learn more about effective suppressive and outbreak therapy medications to treat HSV-2.
Herpes treatment prescribed by an Australian based medical team.
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