Final answer:
Human herpesvirus-1 (HSV-1) causes cold sores or fever blisters, which are contagious lesions typically appearing around the mouth. The virus remains dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate, leading to recurrent sores. Antiviral treatments can help manage symptoms during active outbreaks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Human Herpesvirus-1 and Its Effects
The disease caused by the human herpesvirus-1 (HSV-1) is cold sores or fever blisters, typically found around the mouth area. This virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils with someone who is infected. The presence of the HSV-1 can lead to recurrent outbreaks, often triggered by stress or environmental factors. While the virus can sometimes cause other conditions like acute herpetic gingivostomatitis, it is most commonly associated with cold sores on the lips. After the initial infection, the virus remains dormant in the body's nerve cells and can re-emerge over time.
Latency of Herpes Simplex Virus
Like some other viruses, HSV-1 can exist in a latent state within the body after the primary infection has subsided. It resides in the trigeminal nerve ganglia and can reactivate, causing new cold sores to appear. Although there is no cure for herpes simplex virus, treatments such as antiviral medications can be used to manage the symptoms during active outbreaks.
The human herpesvirus-1 (HSV-1) causes cold sores or fever blisters on or around the lips. It is highly contagious, with about 65% of the US population infected, although many individuals may not show symptoms. HSV-1 can remain latent in the body and can be triggered by stress or certain environmental conditions.