Herpes

• Genital herpes is more common than realised, affecting up to 20% of the adult population
• Many people experience no apparent symptoms, but others may experience recurring episodes
• Approximately 80% of people with the virus are unaware they have it, but can still pass it on
• Over 70% of people with genital herpes acquire it from partner who has no apparent symptoms and is unaware they are infected
• Using condoms can help prevent transmission of herpes, but it cannot guarantee total protection
• Oral cold sores and genital herpes are both caused by the herpes simplex virus and can be transmitted by oral-to-oral, oral-to-genital or genital-to-genital contact
• Effective treatments are available to help control symptoms but they can only be obtained from a doctor.

If you would like more information visit the International Herpes Alliance website at www.herpesalliance.org which also has listings of American support groups and helplines.

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