Herpes Simplex Type 2

Definition of herpes simplex type 2

Herpes simplex type 2 is a type of sexually transmitted disease (STD), which is characterized by vesicles or sores around the genitals and rectum (the last organ of the large intestine). Therefore, this condition is also called genital herpes and is a major cause of venereal ulcer disease.

Herpes simplex is classified as a global problem because of the high number of infections that occur. In 2012, 417 million people aged 15-49 worldwide were infected with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).

The highest incidence was observed in Africa (31.5%), followed by Americans (14.4%). The number of people with HSV-2 is much higher than the number of patients with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1).

The large number of patients is caused by ongoing transmission because many cases go undiagnosed. This condition is often caused by the absence of symptoms or indications that are not typical of HSV-2.

Although it can be transmitted to anyone, women suffer more from genital herpes than men. Because transmission of HSV-2 is more effective if transmitted from male to female. In 2012, around 267 million women and 150 million men lived with HSV-2.

HSV-2 infection makes a person three times more likely to be infected with HIV. People infected with HSV-2 and HIV are more likely to transmit HIV to others. 60% to 90% of people with HIV also suffer from HSV-2. This means that HSV-2 is classified as the most common type of infection among HIV-positive people.
Additional explanation
The symptoms

Most people with HSV-2 have no symptoms and are therefore not aware that they have been infected. Usually, herpes simplex type 2 is characterized by the appearance of blisters in the pubic or rectal area. The number of blisters can be more than one.

The blisters will burst and leave scars, like painful valley lily. These symptoms are typical of type 2 herpes simplex. These symptoms can also be accompanied by sensations such as burning and itching in the genitals, urinary disorders and abnormal genitalia loss.

In newly infected people, symptoms can occur such as fever, headache, lymphadenopathy, fatigue, lack of appetite.
The cause

This disease is caused by infection with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) and a small portion by HSV-1. HSV-2 is transmitted through sex with people with herpes simplex type 2. Transmission from mother to child during childbirth can also occur although it is rare.

The simplest transmission process occurs if the patient has symptoms. But without symptoms, this does not mean that patients can transmit this virus. The reason, HSV-2 can also spread even though the patient does not show any symptoms.

Many people have been infected with HSV-2 but have no symptoms. This condition occurs because the virus is inactive or inactive in the body. Activation of the virus in the future can be caused by several things below:

The presence of certain diseases (mild to severe illness)
fatigue
Physical and emotional stress
Decreased immune system, for example, in people living with HIV / AIDS, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and people using immune-suppressing drugs (such as corticosteroids).
Trauma to areas infected with HSV-2, including sexual relations.
Menstruation.
Exposure to sunlight.

Although genital herpes is most often caused by HSV-2, HSV-1 can also be a cause of genital herpes.

diagnosis

Because the symptoms caused by HSV-2 infection are very typical, there is usually no need for further tests to establish a diagnosis of HSV-2. However, if the symptoms are not clear, laboratory tests can be done to detect the presence of the virus.

Laboratory tests may include taking genital wound fluid samples to be examined in the laboratory. Likewise, blood tests to detect the presence or absence of anti-HSV-2 antibodies in the patient's body.
treatment

There is no treatment or medical procedure that can eliminate the herpes simplex virus type 2 from the patient's body. This means that the virus will remain alive in the patient's body.

The purpose of drug administration is to reduce pain and speed healing when symptoms appear. But basically, the symptoms of HSV-2 can disappear without treatment.

In addition to reducing symptoms, medications can also reduce the frequency of symptoms and reduce the rate of transmission of the virus. Acyclovir, famciclovir, and valaciclovir are the most commonly used types of treatment.

Drug preparations can be in the form of oral medications or ointments. If the symptoms are very serious, the drug can be used by injection. Remember that HSV-2 treatment is important to prevent the risk of contracting HIV.

As for the pain due to a disruptive genital injury, patients can reduce it by taking a hot shower.
prevention

To prevent the risk of transmission of HSV-2, you can do the following:

People with herpes simplex type 2 should avoid sex when they have symptoms of genital herpes. Because when there are symptoms, HSV-2 is very contagious.
The use of condoms can reduce the risk of transmission, even if it is not fully protective, because the virus can still be transmitted by parts of the genitals that are not covered by condoms.
Be loyal to your partner and do not change your sexual partner.
In men, circumcision can protect against infection with HSV-2, HIV and HPV (human papilloma virus).
Pregnant women with symptoms of genital herpes should consult a doctor to prevent transmission to their baby.

Doctor's information
When to see a doctor?

If you suspect the possibility of genital herpes infection or other sexually transmitted diseases, you are advised to seek medical attention immediately.
What should be prepared before consulting a doctor?

Before you consult, you can prepare answers to the following questions from the doctor: