Herpes results from contracting the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It causes sores or blisters in or around the mouth or genitals, alongside other symptoms. This page answers basic questions about genital herpes, including how to prevent and treat it. 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), known as herpes, is a common infection that can cause painful blisters or ulcers. It primarily spreads by skin-to-skin contact. It is treatable but not curable. There are two types of herpes simplex virus. Genital herpes is a herpes infection of the genitals caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). [1] Most people either have no or mild symptoms and thus do not know they are infected. [1] When symptoms do occur, they typically include small blisters that break open to form painful ulcers. [1] 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. 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 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. 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. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) leads to blisters around the mouth or genitals. It transmits through contact, but treatment can decrease outbreak severity.