Genital Herpes

What is Genital Herpes? 

Find a Testing Site

Locate STD testing near you by clicking the link

Service Locator

Genital herpes is an STD caused by two types of viruses. The viruses are called herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).

Additional Information and Facts

CDC Fact Sheet on Genital Herpes

Testing and Treatment

There is no cure for herpes. Antiviral medications can, however, prevent or shorten outbreaks during the period of time the person takes the medication. In addition, daily suppressive therapy (i.e., daily use of antiviral medication) for herpes can reduce the likelihood of transmission to partners.

There is currently no commercially available vaccine that is protective against genital herpes infection. Candidate vaccines are in clinical trials

Content source: 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, January 19). STD Facts - Genital Herpes (Detailed version). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/stdfact-herpes-detailed.htm. 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2016, December 9). CDC – Genital Herpes Treatment. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/treatment.htm. 

Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Page last updated 8/16/24