Herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes oral herpes, genital herpes and infections in other areas of your body. Fluid-filled blisters on your skin are common symptoms, but many people have no symptoms at all. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) leads to blisters around the mouth or genitals. It transmits through contact, but treatment can decrease outbreak severity. How genital herpes is passed on. And how genital herpes is caught. Herpes transmission of genital herpes is a major question for most people. The herpes simplex virus comes in two forms: HSV-1 and HSV-2, causing oral herpes and genital herpes. Learn more about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of these viruses. Herpes results from contracting the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It causes sores or blisters in or around the mouth or genitals, alongside other symptoms. Genital herpes is caused by two types of herpes simplex virus. These types include herpes simplex virus type 2, shortened to HSV-2, and herpes simplex virus type 1, also called HSV-1. This page answers basic questions about genital herpes, including how to prevent and treat it. The herpes simplex virus, also known as HSV, is a viral infection that causes genital and oral herpes. Get the details on key signs, diagnosis, and treatment. Genital herpes is caused by a herpes simplex virus (type 1 or type 2) – nearly everyone will catch at least one type, sooner or later. This means 7 out of 10 by age 25. Herpes infections are categorized by the area of the body that is infected. The two major types of herpes are oral herpes and genital herpes, though other forms also exist. Oral herpes involves the face or mouth.