Although there is no cure for herpes, it can be easily treatable. This helps reduce outbreaks and lowers the risk of passing the virus on to other people.
It's important to know that herpes is more common than you think. In fact, 80% of people with herpes don’t know they have it.
While both types of herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) can be dangerous to a person whose immune system is suppressed (like somebody with HIV/AIDS), it is not a serious illness in itself.
On a more positive note, for people who are aware they have it: herpes can be monitored and suppressed with the assistance of some pharmaceutical intervention. Treatment is aimed at easing symptoms, reducing the frequency of recurrences and reducing transmission.
Things that can help improve symptoms include:
- Washing the area with warm, salty water (avoid soaps)
- Applying ice packs to the affected area
- Applying antiviral cream to cold sores on the mouth
Please check with your local pharmacist for interactions
For further reading about herpes, please head to the Pilot Health Hub.