Herpes – A Virtual Refresher for Clinicians

Herpes Simplex Virus types 1 and 2 are common infections, best known for producing ‘cold sores’ on lips and ano-genital ulcers. Similarity of their names extends to how they affect patients and their treatment although they are serologically and genotypically distinct virus types from the same family.

Whilst the majority of patients who have got this infection do not know they have got it and get on with their lives, not everybody is so lucky! Primary genital herpes can be a harrowing experience for many, and the fear it strikes can be hard to shake off for some. Myths abound about this infection in popular minds, and myriads of articles on the Internet emphasising its ‘incurability’ or ‘there forever’ makes it difficult for these patients to move on. Everyday we see patients whose life has been hit by this infection in terms of their sex life and relationships.

A common infection like herpes should be better managed. The tests are easily available and treatment options are safe, effective and inexpensive. This webinar is a small and humble effort to improve care, reduce stigma and debunk myths about herpes.