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What is the Difference Between HSV-1 and HSV-2?
Understanding Herpes Virus Types
March 31st, 2026
What is the Difference Between HSV-1 and HSV-2?
HSV-1 and HSV-2 are different strains of the herpes simplex virus with distinct characteristics and preferred locations. HSV-1 traditionally causes oral herpes, appearing as cold sores around the mouth and lips, while HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes through sexual transmission. However, both viruses can infect either location through oral or genital contact. HSV-1 affects approximately 67% of the global population under age 50, while HSV-2 affects about 13% of people aged 15-49 worldwide. HSV-2 typically causes more frequent and severe recurrent outbreaks in the genital area, whereas HSV-1 recurrences are generally milder and less frequent. Both viruses remain dormant in nerve cells after initial infection and can reactivate throughout a person's lifetime.
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