Definition of masked. 1  1 : marked by the use of masks a masked ball. 2  2 : failing to present or produce the usual symptoms : latent a masked infection a masked virus.
The herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a double-stranded DNA virus with an enveloped, icosahedral capsid. It is a common cause of infections of the skin and mucous membranes, manifesting itself as tiny, clear, fluid-filled blisters usually around the mouth or genitals.
Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection. It has two known types: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Genital herpes outbreaks are normally caused by the type 2 virus while the type 1 virus typically manifests itself as cold sores around the mouth and lips.However, HSV-1 can also manifest in the form of genital herpes if there are oral to genital contact. Symptoms of genital herpes will show up around the genital, thighs, buttocks or around the anus. 2  24 to 48 hours later, the blisters burst open, oozing a clear to milky fluid and leaving open sores and ulcers with a yellowish membrane that are painful to touch.