The 8 Types of Herpes
There are 8 types of herpes, which is also known as the human herpes virus (HHV). Do you know what they are? We may think of sexually transmitted diseases such as genital herpes when we hear the word 'herpes'. But there are many forms of herpes that do not fall into that category. If we have had chicken pox then we had a type of herpes. The diseases caused by the HHV virus can affect many parts of our body, including the skin. Diseases like chicken pox can leave permanent scars if not treated correctly. More importantly, some types of herpes can actually be fatal.
The 8 types of herpes are identified as human herpes virus 1 though 8 (HHV1-HHV8). - HHV 1 and HHV 2 - herpes simples virus (HSV). HSV-1 and HSV-2 are associated with encephalitis. HSV-1 is the more common cause of adult encephalitis. And HSV-2 is the more common cause of newborn encephalitis. HHV 2 is associated with genital herpes.
- HHV 3 – varicella-zoster virus . This virus causes chicken pox in children and shingles in adults.
- HHV 4 - Epstein-Barr virus. The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is thought to be responsible for a number of diseases including Chronic Fatigue and Infectious Mononucleosis. There is a suggested link with Hodgkin’s disease.
- HHV 5 – cytomegalovirus. This virus is spread through sexual contact and contact with blood and other body fluids. People are usually infected by the time they are 2 years old or during their teenage years. This virus may cause problems for a baby if the mother contacts it during her pregnancy. It can cause severe complications to people who have a weakened immune system because of HIV virus or who have had an organ transplant.
- HHV 6 – recently found in the blood cells. Researchers have identified this virus as the cause of childhood roseola (exanthem subitum).
- HHV 7 –Rrecently found and is closely related to HHV 6. There is some evidence to suggest an involvement in pityriasis rosea, a common skin rash of young people. It is not considered contagious.
- HHV 8 – recently discovered in tumors called Kaposi's Sarcoma. This is a cancer commonly occurring in AIDS patients.
As yet there is no known cure for the human herpes virus (HHV). Researchers are working on a vaccine that may help, but the best way to avoid being infected by any of these types of herpes is to take preventive action.
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For More Information about Herpes Visit:
Herpes Current News
What is Herpes
Oral Herpes - Can you Recognize It?
Herpes in Women
Herpes Meningitis
Anogenital Warts
How To Treat Genital Warts
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