Having herpes simplex virus or blisters in America is not a new thing. Around 85 million people have suffered from this disease at some point in their lives. Interestingly, most of them had this disease when there were less than 3 years of age. Herpes spreads fast because whenever a baby is kissed by his or her relatives, the virus automatically transmits on the skin.
You have seen how easy it is to get infected by herpes? This is why it is so popular. When something is popular, it is not surprising that people are debating over it. This debate usually gives birth to some myths, which should be clarified through educating people with facts as eliminating myths is important for protecting ourselves. In this short article, we will talk about 7 myths and facts regarding herpes.
Myth: Herpes simplex virus only attacks certain types of people.
Fact: There are no such certain types of people who are targeted by herpes virus. It is very common and it can happen to anyone.
Myth: It only infects people who do not keep themselves clean or not having personal hygiene.
Fact: Herpes virus has nothing to do with dirt or cleanliness. Herpes can attack anyone who is sexually active.
Myth: Herpes that occur on mouth are not the same as the sores in genital area.
Fact: Both these cold sores are actually the same. The cold sores on the mouth get transmitted to the genital area through oral or genital sex. This is the one of the main causes of genital herpes.
Myth: People will know that they are currently having herpes.
Fact: This is an insane myth as it does not allow people to realize that they are already having it. It is not important that you come to know when you are suffering from herpes. Around 80% of people do not even know that have herpes as there are mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.
Myth: Herpes passes through blood.
Fact: This is not true as herpes is not something that lives in the blood. Whether it is oral or genital herpes, it will pass through direct skin contact.
Myth 6: A cervical smear test or STI check is done for diagnosing herpes only.
Fact: Routine sexual health checks and cervical smear tests are not for diagnosing herpes. Tests for diagnosing herpes are done only when a person has some symptoms of herpes.
Myth: People who had or are having herpes cannot have kids.
Fact: Herpes simplex virus does not affect that fertility of a man or woman. On the other hand, sometimes the disease may pass to the infant but it is rare and can be prevented by informing the doctor that you or your partner carrier herpes before the delivery.