What Are the Symptoms of Herpes?

Q: What Are the Symptoms of Herpes?

Herpes symptoms: tingling, blisters, sores. 80% of people with HSV-2 don't know they have it. First outbreak is usually the most severe.

Herpes symptoms vary greatly. Many people have very mild or no recognizable symptoms.

First Outbreak

Painful blisters or sores
Flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches)
Swollen lymph nodes
Usually the most severe outbreak

Recurrent Outbreaks

Milder than first
Tingling or burning before sores appear
Fewer sores
Heal faster (5–10 days)

Asymptomatic Shedding

Virus can spread without visible sores
80% of transmissions occur during asymptomatic shedding

Triggers

Stress
Illness
Menstruation
Sun exposure
Friction

Source: CDC, American Sexual Health Association.

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