How often do outbreaks occur?
Half of the people who have herpes don’t have any more outbreaks (when herpes flares up again and causes symptoms) after the first occurrence of symptoms. Some people only get a few outbreaks, while others get many. People can have many outbreaks in a row and then go months or years without one. People with illnesses that weaken the immune system, like leukemia and HIV, are more likely to get more outbreaks and have symptoms that are more painful and last longer. What causes an outbreak? It is not clear what causes outbreaks. Some ideas are: Other infections Physical or emotional stress Fever Surgery Menstruation Sexual intercourse Skin irritations (ex.: sunburn) Trauma Hormonal changes Alcohol Problems with your immune system Is there anything I can do to prevent outbreaks? Make sure that are you are eating a healthy diet, getting enough rest, exercising, and finding ways to relieve stress. If you have frequent or severe outbreaks, talk to your health care provider about taking a medi
