Virtually any part of the neuraxis may be affected by this virus, including the retina, brain, brainstem, cranial nerves, spinal cord, and nerve roots. When HSV-2 infection is mentioned, neonatal herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE), a devastating disorder, is the disease most commonly considered.
How does HSV-2 affect the body?
Herpes infection can cause sores or breaks in the skin or lining of the mouth, vagina, and rectum. This provides a way for HIV to enter the body. Even without visible sores, having genital herpes increases the number of CD4 cells (the cells that HIV targets for entry into the body) found in the lining of the genitals.
Does HSV-2 weaken immune system?
While they can pose serious problems for your immune response, there is no evidence that herpes weakens your immune system in the long run. However, scientists are yet to fully understand exactly how these viruses work.
Can HSV-2 affect other parts of the body?
No. Genital herpes cannot be transmitted to another part of your body such as your arm, leg or hand after the first infection occurs. If you have genital HSV II, you will not get HSV II at another site in your body. The immune system produces antibodies that protect other parts of your body from infection.
How bad is HSV-2?
Herpes isnt deadly and it usually doesnt cause any serious health problems. While herpes outbreaks can be annoying and painful, the first flare-up is usually the worst. For many people, outbreaks happen less over time and may eventually stop completely.
How long can HSV 2 lie dormant?
How long can herpes go undetected? Once youve contracted HSV, there will be an incubation period — the time it takes from contracting the virus until the first symptom appears. The incubation period for HSV-1 and HSV-2 is the same: 2 to 12 days.
Can I kiss someone with HSV 2?
Oral herpes (HSV-1) is usually transmitted by kissing, and genital herpes (HSV-2) is most often spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can cause genital herpes, but genital herpes is most commonly caused by HSV-2. Theres no need to swear off kissing forever on account of herpes, though.