Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common, highly contagious virus that infects humans and causes painful blisters or ulcers, most frequently on the mouth (oral herpes) or genitals (genital herpes). Once acquired, HSV remains in the body for life, establishing latency in nerve cells and periodically reactivating to cause recurrent symptoms. There are two main types of HSV: HSV-1, primarily causes oral herpes but can also cause genital infections, and HSV-2, primarily responsible for genital herpes but can also infect the oral region. Transmission occurs through direct skin-to-skin contact with infected mucous membranes, saliva, or fluid from sores.

Other names

HerpesvirusHSV-1HSV-2

Inhibition of viral DNA polymerase