Herpes Flashcards
(23 cards)
What does STD stand for?
Sexually Transmitted Disease
Also known as STI (Sexually-Transmitted Infection); STD has recognizable signs and symptoms, while infections may not.
How can STDs be transmitted?
Through any sexual activity including:
* Vaginal intercourse
* Anal intercourse
* Oral sex
Transmission occurs between opposite-sex or same-sex partners.
True or False: Having one STD provides immunity against future infections.
False
Having one STD does not confer immunity against reinfection.
Who should be assessed for treatment if one partner is infected with an STD?
Sexual partners of infected clients
It is important for partners to be evaluated to prevent further transmission.
Which gender tends to bear a disproportionate number of the effects of STDs?
Women
Women are often more affected by STDs due to various biological and social factors.
What emotional responses are common after an STD diagnosis?
Frustrations, anger, anxiety, fear, shame, and guilt
These emotions can significantly impact mental health.
What causes Herpes Simplex?
Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2)
Both types can infect nearby sensory neurons.
How is HSV-1 primarily transmitted?
Through contact with open lesions on the lips or inside the mouth
Common modes include kissing and sharing utensils.
What are the primary transmission modes for HSV-2?
Vaginal or anal intercourse and oral-genital contact
Skin-to-skin contact can also transmit HSV-2.
What is a characteristic of herpes viruses?
The ability to become latent
The virus can remain inactive for long periods and then reactivate.
What are common signs and symptoms of herpes infection?
Painful sores, flu-like symptoms, burning sensation during urination
Symptoms usually appear 3 to 7 days after contact.
Fill in the blank: Herpes lesions develop on the _______ side at the affected ganglion.
ipsilateral
What is Herpetic Whitlow?
Infection when a finger rubs a lesion
It can transfer the virus to other body parts.
What serious complication can arise from genital herpes in women?
Risk of cervical cancer
Annual Pap tests are recommended for early detection.
What should pregnant women diagnosed with HSV-2 do?
Start a daily antiviral at 36 weeks of pregnancy
This is to decrease the risk of transmission to the baby.
What is the mortality rate of herpes simplex encephalitis?
30%
Half of the survivors may have moderate to severe neurological impairment.
What is the best test to confirm a herpes simplex infection?
Viral culture
A sample is taken from a herpes sore or genital secretions.
What is the treatment for HSV infections?
Oral antiviral drugs:
* Acyclovir (Zovirax)
* Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
* Famciclovir (Famvir)
These help control symptoms but do not cure the infection.
What are some triggers that can reactivate the herpes virus?
Triggers include:
* Illness or fever
* Sun exposure
* Menstrual period
* Emotional stress
* Surgery
These factors can lead to recurrent outbreaks.
What is the best way to prevent genital herpes?
Consistent and correct use of condoms
Condoms reduce risk but do not eliminate it completely.
What should individuals with symptoms of oral herpes avoid?
Oral contact with others and sharing objects that touched saliva
This helps prevent the spread of the virus.
True or False: Dental dams should be reused.
False
A new dental dam should be used for every instance of oral sex.
What should be done if a breast has herpes sores while breastfeeding?
Do not breastfeed from that breast; pump breast milk instead
This prevents transmission to the baby.
