Herpes simplex 2 is the main cause for genital herpes among humans. This is an immensely contagious virus that gets transmitted from one partner to another in the midst of sexual activity. Carriers can spread this virus even without facing any symptoms of this infection. The plague of herpes 2 simplex in the body leads to formation of ulcers and blisters in clusters around the genital area of both men and women. Statistics show that more than 45 million people have been infected with this disease. In addition, 80-90 % of the infected people spread this virus in their ignorance about their infection. Most of them do not experience any noticeable symptom as a potent sign of their infection. The invasion of herpes type 2 is most observed among people nurturing an addiction of cocaine. Further, people with multiple sexual partners are most prone to contracting this virus.

Symptoms of HSV-2

Once the herpes simplex virus 2 enters the body it becomes dormant. This stage is called the incubation period. At this stage there are no evident signs of symptoms appearing on the body. Moreover, this is the safest stage when this virus does not get transmitted to other humans regardless of indulging into sexual relations with multiple partners. This period generally lasts for a period of 3-7 days. The first outbreak occurs only after a week. And the first eruption of herpes 2 virus is most painful and discomforting. In fact, the initial eruption of symptoms last longer than latter eruptions. The initial signs may include, fever, extreme headache, unusual muscle aches, painful urination, abnormal vaginal discharge, tender and swollen nymph nodes in the groin area of men and women. In the later stages, women may experience irritation and inflammation in vulval and / or inner walls of vagina. They may also witness generation of ulcers or blisters in the outer as well as inner side of the vagina. The rectal area may experience slight inflammation accompanied by blisters. Men may also witness the development of blisters on the penis or the rectal area.

Tests for HSV-2

There are numerous ways of detecting the presence of this virus in your body. One of the most popular methods is the culture test. In this test a sample of fluid is swabbed with the help of cotton. This sample is then sent to the laboratory where the virus is cultured. This method is however, not 100 per cent reliable. A positive result of the test would confirm the invasion of this virus in the body. However, if the result is negative, the blister sample may or may not be adequate for the test. Further, there are blood tests as well to detect the presence of HVS-2 in our body. The blood tests basically detect the presence of the combative anti-bodies in our body. If there are no or insufficient anti-bodies in our blood sample that means the person is still infected with the disease. If there are adequate anti-bodies, this means that the body has recovered from the infection.