Most herpes infections are transmitted from one person who has the infection to another through sexual contact (sexual intercourse, oral sex or anal sex). If you have had more than one sexual partner it may be difficult to know who transmitted the infection, but there are tests available to determine whether this is a new infection or an outbreak of a pre-existing infection. There is no cure for herpes. After an outbreak the virus becomes inactive. However, it remains in the nerves that attach to the skin in the genital area and can reactivate at any time. It is difficult to predict when this will occur or how often. Most people report that outbreaks become less frequent over time. If you have frequent outbreaks your doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication that will reduce the number and severity of the outbreaks. The medication is most effective if taken within 24 to 48 hours of the onset of the outbreak. An outbreak might be triggered by stress, fever, sexual activity, menstruation or other hormonal changes. These vary from one person to the next and may even vary for the same person. Prevention: Abstinence is the only way to guarantee that you will not contract herpes from an infected partner. The next best protection is the use of condoms. The condom must cover the area where the outbreak usually occurs. For example, if the outbreak usually affects the shaft of the penis, a condom can protect the partner; however, if the thighs or scrotum are usually the affected areas, a condom will not be adequate because it won’t cover those areas. Although use of condoms might not be necessary if both partners have herpes, a condom will offer protection against hepatitis B and HIV as well. Current data suggest that a person with herpes simplex infection is twice as likely to contract HIV infection if he or she is exposed to the virus, even through a micro-ulceration in the skin. Treatment: Outbreaks can be treated with medications such as acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir. Although they are not cures, these antiviral medications decrease the pain, duration and severity of the infection. If you have recurrent outbreaks it is advisable to have a filled prescription available at all times so that treatment is not delayed. Sitz baths are also helpful as well as are loose- fitting clothing and analgesics (such as Ibuprofen and acetaminophen). Topical treatments are not effective and should not be used. Occasionally secondary infections, urinary retention or dissemination occur in some people and may require hospitalization. Having Children: A female with herpes can get pregnant and have healthy babies. If you are thinking about having children, it is very important to discuss this with your doctor so that all necessary precautions can be taken to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy. Shared: WEBSITE / Health & Illness / Adolescence Issues / Herpes May 2010
Written testimony of Jack Whelan in support of S.477 and S.439 The Honorable Senator Anthony Petruccelli and Representative Michael Costello Joint Committee on Financial Services State House - Commonwealth of Massachusetts Dear Chairmen Petruccelli and Costello and Members of the Committee: My name is Jack Whelan. I live in Andover and I’ve been a resident of Massachusetts my enti
Africa in Motion Special Focus – Voices of the Bushmen Al members of the 'Voices of the Bushman' panel discussion are available for interview or to provide feature articles. For more information, please contact Kirsty Dickson, Press Officer, on 07826 850763 or ---AiM is pleased to present a spotlight on the Bushmen of Southern Africa. As part of this focus, there wil be an exhibition of Bu