Valtrex, an antiviral drug, has been shown to help prevent the spread of herpes simplex virus 2, or genital herpes. Valacyclovir has already been shown to reduce flare-ups. If the HSV-2-positive partners had a flare-up, they were given the option of treatment with valacyclovir for five days. Valacyclovir reduced the transmission of HSV-2 by 48 percent and reduced recurrences by 75 percent. The main reason for this is the drug reduced "shedding" of the virus.

Primary Herpes : The first time someone is exposed to herpes, the virus often infects the body without causing any noticeable problem. This process generates an antibody response in which the immune system produces specific proteins that are directed against the herpes virus. The antibody response usually makes recurrences mild. Sometimes, however, the first attack of herpes causes people to become very sick. It may cause fever, swollen glands, and bleeding gums, together with painful sore(s) around the mouth (gingivostomatitis). These signs and symptoms may last several days. Difficulty in eating and drinking may lead to dehydration. The viral infection typically lasts 10 to 14 days. The herpes blisters themselves may last anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks before they scab over and go away, usually without scarring. Primary herpes is typically contracted during childhood.

Herpes simplex infections are common, unsightly, and embarrassing. When they appear in their most common location, around the mouth and lips, people often refer to them as "cold sores" and "fever blisters." The herpes virus has two forms called - type I and type II. In general, type I infections occur above the waist, while type II infections occur below the waist. Type II infections are associated with genital herpes. However, the distinction between types I and II herpes is not absolute. Clinically, the distinction doesn't matter a great deal since a determination between the two types plays no role in diagnosing and treating people with herpes infections in everyday practice. The most striking characteristic of herpes infections, no matter where they occur on the body, is their tendency to recur in more or less the same place. Such recurrences may happen often (for example, once a month) or only occasionally (for example, once or twice a year). The tendency of this virus to establish itself in the nerve collections (called ganglia) under the skin is responsible for the recurrences. Repeated episodes occur when the virus is reactivated by: Fever; Systemic (body-wide) infection;, Ultraviolet radiation (like a sunburn); Stress; hanges in the immune system; Trauma.

Treatment for Shingles : There are several effective treatments for shingles. Drugs that fight viruses (antivirals), such as acyclovir (Zovirax) or famciclovir (Famvir) can reduce the duration of the rash if started early (within 48 hours of the appearance of the rash). The addition of steroids may also limit the length of time that a patient has pain with shingles. However, the benefit of both of these drugs is limited. In addition to antiviral medication, pain medications may be needed for symptom control. The affected area should be kept covered and dry. However, bathing is permitted and the area can be cleansed with soap and water. An aluminum acetate solution (Burows or Domeboro's solution, available at your pharmacy) can be used to help dry up the blisters and oozing.