Stress can cause an
outbreak of genital herpes in people who have already acquired the virus.
Nigel Scott, information officer at the Herpes Viruses Association, said that
anything which could cause the immune system to be impaired could trigger an
outbreak.
He explained that often people become anxious when they have contracted genital
herpes and this stress itself is enough to cause symptoms to become apparent.
Those who have acquired the herpes simplex virus were told that anti-viral
drugs work well.
"They work better as a preventative - whatever treatment you have, once
you've got the symptoms it's going to take a few days," stated Mr Scott.
He said that when people get a warning sign such as an itch or tickle was the
most effective time to try any treatments to prevent an outbreak.
According to the Herpes Viruses Association, three-quarters of people in the UK
who have contacted the virus are unaware and only ever have mild symptoms.
© Adfero Ltd
Sexual health news : 1 June 2012
