Essay On Herpes Simplex

Herpes Simplex is a common virus that causes infection in humans. This virus is spread in both humans and animals. However, humans are the primary reservoirs for HSV and are the only ones that experience any symptoms. There are two types of Herpes Simplex known as HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 primarily causes oral herpes while HSV-2 causes genital herpes.1 This virus is easily contracted and often during one’s childhood. Unfortunately, this virus is latent and reoccurs every so often, more so during times of stress. Herpes Simplex is a mild infection for most, however, this virus can lead to many serious complications.

Characteristics and transmission. Herpes Simplex originates from the herpesviridae family. It is a DNA virus that is has a lipid bilayer envelope with glycoprotein spikes when active.2 HSV contains a capsid that contains capsomeres, tegument (which initiates replication) and a genome.3 In its latent form, HSV does not have an envelope to remain dormant on the trigeminal nerve ganglion.1 However, that does not mean the person is no longer affected; the virus can always reactivate itself. Since the virus remains in neural tissue, it can invade the brain and destroy it.

HSV-1 is spread through saliva and direct contact, such as kissing, sharing eating utensils, sharing drinks or sharing personal items. Children often contract the virus from kissing their parents and coming in contact with other children. HSV-2 is spread through sexual intercourse. HSV must be transported through bodily fluids (saliva, pus, semen, vaginal fluid) to infect cells.3 The virus is transmitted through the mucosal linings of the body or through an open wound and has an incubation period of 2-12 days.4

Virulence factors and mechanism of pathog...

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... to replicate.4 Other antivirals that affect HSV is valacyclovir and famiciclovir. For herpes labialis, acyclovir is not as effective as valacyclovir.7 However, acyclovir, valacyclovir and famiciclovir are all equally effective against recurrent genital herpes.7 The use of antivirals is most effective when used within the first 72 hours of onset. In the immunocompromised, it has been seen that the virus is acyclovir resistant.7 Unfortunately, these antiviral only affect the active version and does not work against the latent virus. This means the host will always be infected.

Conclusion. Herpes simplex is a virus that many people contract in their childhood. It can cause lesions to form on the mouth or genitals that are both painful and irritating. Majority of the time, they only cause discomfort to the host. However, in rare scenarios, it can be life threatening.