Herpes zoster is caused by varicella-zoster virus infection, while genital herpes is caused by herpes simplex type 2 virus infection. The distribution of the rash is also different. Herpes zoster can appear as clusters of small blisters, blood blisters or pustules along the peripheral nerves, while genital herpes is specifically fixed in the vulva or buttocks with several clusters of small blisters and no pustules or blood blisters. Herpes zoster can appear as a unilateral band in distribution, while genital herpes often does not show such manifestations, and both types of herpes require antiviral treatment for treatment.