How it spreads
Herpes is transmitted via close skin contact including unprotected sex. It can sometimes be contracted even when people have no symptoms of the virus, and can be transmitted from mouth to genitals (and vice versa).

Symptoms
Symptoms of herpes include blisters on the genitals which sometimes burst leaving sore ulcers, pain when urinating, swelling of glands and soreness/irritation.

How to avoid it
Condoms provide some protection, but only protects the skin that is covered. You should avoid having sex with someone who has blisters present as there is a high risk of being infected.

Treatment
There is no known cure for herpes so the virus can recur. Antiviral tablets can be prescribed to treat outbreaks or to suppress recurrent outbreaks and saline baths can offer pain relief.