What it means
A sexually transmitted virus that causes painful blisters and sores on and around the genitals. After the first outbreak it stays dormant in nerve cells for life and can flare again. It can spread even when no sores are visible. A baby can catch it during birth, which can cause a severe infection in the newborn.
For the nurse
Teach that antiviral drugs shorten outbreaks and lower the chance of spread, that condoms reduce but do not remove the risk, and to avoid sex during outbreaks. A pregnant client with active lesions or warning symptoms at the start of labor usually has a cesarean birth.
At a glance
| Also written | herpes simplex virus type 2, herpes simplex virus 2 |
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Easy to confuse with
HSV-1
Herpes simplex virus type 1, the virus that most often causes cold sores and can also cause genital herpes.
Related terms
sexually transmitted infection
An infection passed from one person to another mainly through sexual contact.
herpes simplex virus
A common virus that infects the skin and lining of the mouth or genitals and stays in the body for life.
HSV-1
Herpes simplex virus type 1, the virus that most often causes cold sores and can also cause genital herpes.