What Causes Recurrent Herpes Outbreaks?
Medically reviewed by Faith Coleman, University of New Mexico School of Medicine on August 23rd, 2026.
Recurrent herpes outbreaks are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) becoming reactivated from dormant nerve cells. After initial infection, the virus remains inactive in nerve ganglia near the spine and can reactivate due to various triggers. Common triggers include stress, illness, fatigue, immunosuppression, hormonal changes, pregnancy, and sun exposure. Studies show that 90% of people with HSV-1 and 60% with HSV-2 experience recurrent outbreaks, though frequency typically decreases over time. When reactivated, the virus travels along nerve pathways to cause lesions at or near the original infection site. If your recurrences are frequent or painful, daily medication may decrease the frequency or intensity of outbreaks. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss prevention of recurrences.
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