How is herpes II spread?
The herpes II virus is spread during sexual contact with an infected person who is secreting the virus in fluids from lesions or mucous membranes. What are the symptoms of herpes II? Typically, the first signs of herpes II is a cluster of blister-like lesions in the genital area (head of penis, labia, anus, cervix) which spread and merge, break and crust over within four to 15 days. The fluid from these itching, painful sores is highly infectious. Other frequent symptoms are painful urination, urethral or vaginal discharge and swollen lymph nodes. The first exposure or primary episode consists of headache, fever, chills and muscular weakness. Recurrent episodes are less severe and are limited to the affected area. How soon do symptoms appear? Some studies have shown that from one-half to two-thirds of people infected with the virus will have no symptoms. But, if they appear, local symptoms may be seen from two to 12 days after exposure. When and for how long is a person able to spread
