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 simplex virus 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2), also known as human herpesvirus 1 and 2 (HHV-1 and HHV-2), are two members of the herpesvirus family, Herpesviridae, that infect humans. Both HSV-1 (which produces most cold sores) and HSV-2 (which produces most genital herpes) are ubiquitous and contagious.