Herpes has been around for a very long time. So long that it very likely predates the human species. "Herpes" derives its name from the Greek word herpein, which means to creep or crawl. The physicians of Greece, treating herpes over 2,000 years ago, described herpes of the mouth and herpetic sores in the groin, which traveled around the flank and genital regions. Throughout history many a physician attempted to understand the herpes virus. Due to similarities amongst various herpes viruses, it was difficult to diagnose which virus was responsible, as symptoms varied yet remained similar. Today herpes has become one of the most common viral infections, found in every social and economic class. Modern technology has further enabled us to classify the various herpes viruses. Research in the late 60's revealed herpes of the mouth, Herpes I, and herpes of the genital region, Herpes II, as two very distinct herpes viruses. .
There are two herpes viruses. Herpes type one is commonly called cold sores or fever blisters. These are found near the mouth. Gingivostomatitis, another form of herpes usually caused by HSV-1 is characterized by lesions on the inside of the mouth and throat (small painful ulcerations). Type two is called Genital Herpes generally occur below the waist. For women, symptoms show up in the vulva, vagina, and cervix. For men, symptoms generally show up on the penis (the foreskin or penile shaft), and surrounding genitalia area.
Herpes is spread by direct skin-to-skin contact. Unlike a flu virus that you can get through the air, herpes spreads by direct contact, that is, directly from the site of infection to the site of contact. For example, if you have a cold sore and kiss someone, you can transfer the virus to his or her mouth. Similarly, if you have active genital herpes and have vaginal or anal intercourse, you can give your partner genital herpes. Finally, if you have a cold sore and put your mouth on your partners" genitals (oral sex), you can give your partner genital herpes.