Many individuals infected with HSV-1 or HSV-2 remain unaware of their status due to the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms. It’s common for people to misinterpret herpes outbreaks, mistaking them for other conditions like the flu, other STIs, pimples, or ingrown hairs.
Primary Herpes outbreak
The initial herpes outbreak typically lasts between two to four weeks. During this primary phase, symptoms can closely resemble those of the flu, including:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headaches
- Swollen lymph nodes in the groin area
- General malaise or a feeling of being unwell
Later Outbreaks
Recurrent outbreaks can manifest weeks or months after the initial infection, with the first year frequently enough seeing the most frequent occurrences. These repeat outbreaks may be preceded by subtle warning signs during a phase known as the prodrome. Hours before an outbreak, individuals might experience itching, tingling, or burning sensations at the site of initial viral entry. Pain in the legs, buttocks, and lower back can also be a precursor.
Dr. I.Cri Baill, an obstetrician-gynecologist and professor at the university of Central Florida College of Medicine, notes, “Most people do have a prodrome with a recurrent outbreak, with tingling and burning in their skin. Then they usually break out in sores in the same place over and over when they actually become symptomatic.”
For the majority, subsequent outbreaks are generally less severe and shorter in duration compared to the primary episode. The frequency of these recurrences varies substantially, ranging from no outbreaks to several times a year or even less often. Sores from recurrent outbreaks typically heal more quickly than those associated with the initial illness.
over time, outbreaks tend to become less frequent.
