Gender relations within colleges and universities are stereotypically sexually charged, focusing largely on the physical. However, this reality allows for the proliferation of sexually transmitted diseases such as the herpes simplex virus.
Herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease which infects the majority of adults in the U.S. today. Almost one in five college students are infected carriers of Type 2, or genital herpes, and oral herpes is so common that 50-80% of U.S. adults have Type 1 antibodies. Unlike many other sexually transmitted diseases, herpes does not have a cure, and therefore, is for life. Safe sex, regular testing, and abstinence are the best forms of prevention and should be practiced whenever possible.
Still, a widespread stigma surrounding sexually transmitted diseases has resulted in a hesitancy towards getting tested. This important step aids in stopping the spread of disease and allows infected individuals to get the treatment necessary for their affliction. However, if you find that you are unsure whether or not you would like to get tested, here are a number of symptoms that may indicate that you are infected by the herpes simplex virus.
Symptoms
First and foremost, it is important to note that there are two types of herpes: Type 1 and Type 2. Each type has its own unique set of symptoms and mode of transmission.
Type 1, or oral herpes, is an infection of the lips or mouth which causes cold sores or fever blisters. These red bumps often appear in the form of an outbreak in the presence of sickness or stress.
Type 2, or genital herpes, is an infection of the genitalia which results in the itching or burning of the genital area, small bumps or open sores on the genitals, flu-like symptoms, swollen glands, and possible pain in the legs, buttocks, and/or genital area.
Transmission
A common misconception about herpes is that it can only be transmitted through the act of sexual intercourse. However, this is simply not true. Type 1 herpes is usually spread from person to person through kissing, but also can be spread from mouth to genitalia – creating a case of genital herpes. Additionally, genital herpes is usually transmitted through sexual intercourse, but can also be transmitted through genital-oral contact which then results in a case of oral herpes.
Treatment
If diagnosed with herpes simplex virus, a doctor will often prescribe an antiviral, such as valacyclovir, which is to be taken at the first sign of an outbreak. This medication is used to prevent the spreading of the disease to a sexual partner, as well as attempts to reduce the number of outbreaks an individual has in their lifetime. Because there is no cure for herpes, antivirals simply work to treat and ease the symptoms experienced by the infected – the medication will not rid them of herpes altogether.
Prevention
As with all sexually transmitted diseases, the best form of prevention for herpes simplex virus is abstinence. Abstaining from any form of sexual activity will make contracting the virus incredibly unlikely. However, because this form of prevention is viewed as unfavorable by a number of college students, safe sex is a healthy alternative. Using a condom lowers the risk of contracting a number of STDs, but is not completely fullproof. Regular testing at your local clinic will prevent you from spreading the disease to your partner and allow you to receive all necessary treatment. Herpes simplex virus is a prevalent sexually transmitted disease which requires the attention and prevention of college students to stop the spread of infection. Be safe and smart, collegiettes!
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