Herpes simplex virus

Uncommon card · No. 84194

Herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2) are two members of the human Herpesviridae family, known for establishing lifelong viral infection in humans. The virus is characterized with long periods of dormancy and immune evasion. This is interspersed with sporadic reactivation, subsequent viral shedding, and consequent infection of new hosts. Infection is typically asymptomatic, though in rare cases is known for inducing cold sores, blindness, and/or encephalitis. Herpes simplex virus has been recorded since the advent of human writing systems. As of 2016, about 67% of the world population under the age of 50 had HSV-1, with rates being greatest in urban centers. Because it can be transmitted through any intimate contact, it is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections.

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