Herpes simplex is caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two types of herpes simplex viruses: herpes simplex virus type 1 and herpes simplex virus type 2, which infect slightly different areas. Type 1 herpes simplex viruses are mainly spread through contact with the virus in tissues or saliva in the mouth, or sometimes through mouth-to-genital contact, which spreads to the genitals and causes herpes in the genitals. Herpes simplex virus type 2, on the other hand, is spread primarily through contact with virally infected genital or anal and body fluids during sexual intercourse. In lesser cases, herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 can also be transmitted from mother to baby during labor and delivery, causing neonatal herpes. When infected with oral herpes or genital herpes, some people have no visible symptoms, but itchy or painful blisters or sores may develop at the site of infection, ranging from mild to severe, and the infection can last a lifetime. The disease has a high recurrence rate and there is no effective drug cure. At the onset of the disease, patients are advised to seek medical attention and treatment under the supervision of a physician.