are caused by HSV-1 and the majority of genital herpes cases are caused by HSV-2. However, both types can
occur in either areas, or both. Many people will never
have symptoms, which is called 'latency'. Others will experience symptoms
occasionally.
The frequency of symptoms varies drastically from person to person. The
first outbreak may be the most extreme outbreak you have and over time
the recurrences often decrease in frequency and severity.
You may find that stress, poor diet, other illnesses or some medications
may trigger a herpes episode. Some people also find that ultraviolet light
(e.g. going on summer holidays) also prompts the blisters to occur.
How is it treated? As with most viruses, there is no cure for herpes.
It is different from other common viral infections because once you have
contracted the virus you will have it for life.
There are three medications to help speed the healing process of outbreaks
or used to suppress the frequency of outbreaks: acyclovir, famciclovir
and valaciclovir.
Acyclovir cream, for the treatment of oral herpes, is available over the
counter at the chemist.
page 3 of 7
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Molluscum contagiosum
What is it? Molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) causes
a skin disease that used to be mainly seen in children. It has developed
to become a sexually-transmitted disease in
adults, usually causing one or more small lesions or bumps.
It is generally a benign infection and clears up without treatment.
How is it transmitted? For adults, the most common route of transmission
is through direct sexual contact or contact with lesions. However, you
can contract MCV from objects such as towels, clothing or flooring that
have been in contact with someone else's lesions.
What are the symptoms? The lesions may begin as small bumps, which can
develop over a period of several weeks into larger sores/bumps. In most
cases, the lesions cause few problems but may be
itchy or tender and can last from 2 weeks to 4 years.
How is it treated? Most symptoms are self-resolving, but lesions
are often removed by
