Whether herpes simplex virus type 2 positivity is important or not needs to be determined based on the clinical symptoms and the infected population. Positive herpes simplex virus type 2 indicates infection with herpes simplex virus, which may be a past infection or a current infection. Previous infections do not have any clinical symptoms and do not need to be treated, while current infections need to be determined based on clinical symptoms and the infected population to determine the severity of the disease. If an adult is infected with herpes simplex virus type 2, the symptoms are usually genital herpes, with erythema and clustered blisters on the glans, labia, foreskin and other parts of the body, accompanied by burning pain. The disease is self-limiting and usually resolves on its own, but aggressive antiviral treatment can relieve symptoms, shorten the course of the disease and prevent complications. If a newborn is infected with herpes simplex virus, it may lead to serious consequences such as hepatosplenomegaly, jaundice, respiratory distress, and coma; young children are susceptible to herpetic eczema, and secondary bacterial infections can cause serious complications. Therefore, it is recommended to take treatment measures as soon as possible when infants and children are herpes simplex virus type 2 positive. Herpes simplex virus type 2 positivity, previous infection, and current infection in adults can be left untreated, but infants and young children with current infection need to be treated as soon as possible.