Herpes simplex virus, also called HSV, infections spread during close contact. This may be through skin-to-skin touching, contact with a herpes sore, or contact with mucous membranes or their fluids. HSV infection can show up throughout the body.

Herpes simplex virus infection may have no symptoms. At the time of infection, some people have mild flu-like symptoms and blisters on or around the lips, called cold sores. HSV can also cause blisters on or around the genitals and pain with urination.

There is no cure for herpes simplex virus infection. Medicines that target the virus, called antivirals, can help speed healing and lower how often the virus causes symptoms. These medicines also help lower the chance of spreading the virus to someone else.