The difference between herpes simplex and genital herpes is the site of occurrence, the causative virus, and the route of infection.
1. The site of occurrence is different.
(1) Herpes simplex. The symptoms mainly appear in the mucous membranes of the mouth, lips and nose, resulting in clustered erythema and blisters in these areas.
(2) Genital herpes. Clinically called genital herpes, it tends to infect the external genital area, causing one or more blisters to appear on the genitals or anus, or even erosion or ulceration.
2. The causative virus is different.
Herpes simplex virus is mainly divided into herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Patients may experience clinical symptoms after infection, and after self-healing, the virus lurks in the body and the symptoms tend to recur.
(1) Herpes simplex. It is usually caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) type I infection.
(2) Genital herpes. Mainly caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) type II infection, but can also be caused by type I.
3. Infection route.
(1) Herpes simplex. Spread through kissing, contact with contaminated utensils or towels, and other items.
(2) Genital herpes. Spread through sexual contact.
When the patient has some kind of trigger such as fever, cold, etc., herpes simplex and genital herpes are both prone to recurrence, and both are effective with antiviral drugs and cannot be cured.