What Are the Symptoms of Herpes?

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