For Teens: Understanding HerpesPara los adolescentes: en qu© consiste el herpes

For Teens: Understanding Herpes

Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that causes painful outbreaks of blisters and sores. It spreads through contact with an infected area-usually a sore on the genitals or mouth. Herpes can also spread even when sores aren't visible. There's no cure for herpes. But treatment can help make outbreaks happen less often and be less severe.

What to Look For






Medications can help reduce how often outbreaks happen. They can also lessen pain. Help sores heal faster by keeping them clean and dry. To avoid spreading the virus, don't have sex during an outbreak. Also, avoid oral sex if you have a cold sore. Cold sores are another form of the herpes virus (oral herpes). Oral herpes can be passed from the mouth to the genitals.

If You Don't Get Treated

Herpes isn't deadly. But it does have risks:



Don't kiss or have sex if you or your partner has a herpes sore. And use latex condoms every time you have sex-even between outbreaks.


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