Herpes is common, lifelong, and highly manageable. At Irys Medical Center, we help you reduce outbreaks by 70–80% and transmission risk by up to 50% with modern antiviral therapy.
Lifelong Control Achieved with Simple Daily Medication.
The two types of Herpes Simplex Virus cause symptoms in different locations and recur at different rates.
Both types are treatable, and transmission can be reduced dramatically with daily suppression therapy.
Herpes is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact with infectious areas.
Outbreaks are usually most severe during the first episode.
Painful blisters that ulcerate, fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
Symptoms can last 2-4 weeks without treatment.
Begins with tingling or itching (prodrome), followed by smaller sores.
Becomes less frequent and less severe over time.
Taking one antiviral pill daily is the most effective way to manage Herpes long-term.
| Goal | Metric |
|---|---|
| Outbreak Reduction | 70–80% reduction in frequency. |
| Transmission Risk | 48–50% reduction in transmission to partners (when combined with condoms). |
| Dosing (Valacyclovir) | 500mg once daily (most patients) or 1g once daily (for frequent outbreaks). |
| Ideal For | Patients with ≥6 outbreaks/year, discordant couples, or those with high anxiety. |
| Availability | Prescriptions filled same-day at Irys Medical Center. |
Antiviral medication taken at the first sign of an outbreak can shorten its duration by days.
500mg twice daily for 3 days (preferred short course).
Highly effective at preventing full sore formation.
400mg three times daily for 5 days (standard alternative).
Must be taken regularly for full effect.
Must be taken at the first tingle or prodromal symptom.
Waiting for sores to appear reduces efficacy.
Shortens outbreak duration by 1–2 days and reduces severity/pain.
Accurate testing is essential for confirming status and determining type (HSV-1 vs HSV-2).
Preventing transmission during pregnancy is vital as neonatal herpes is a serious risk.
Highest risk (30–50%) is if the mother acquires a new infection late in pregnancy.
Recurrent HSV-2 risk to baby is <1% with prophylaxis.
Antiviral medication from 36 weeks gestation.
C-section required if any active lesions are present at time of delivery.