Pathogen

• Herpes simplex virus (usually type 2)

Epidemiology

• Common in all sexually active populations

• Direct contact with genital secretions

• Direct contact

Clinical features

• Incubation period 2-7 days

• Painful genital ulceration +/- vaginal d/c, malaise, LN

• Lifelong infection, recurrences

• Encephalitis

Neonatal

Vertical transmission - can be fatal

Diagnosis

• Culture

• Serology

• Nucleic acid detection: PCR of vesicle swab, blood, CSF

Treatment

• Aciclovir for 5-10 days