Quick Answer
Yes, herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2. It spreads through skin-to-skin contact, including oral sex, and is one of the most common STIs globally.
- ~1 in 6 adults has HSV-2; ~50% have HSV-1.
- Viral, incurable, suppressible.
- Treatment: antivirals for outbreaks or daily suppression.
- Most transmission occurs from asymptomatic shedding.
Context Most Pages Skip
Herpes is one of the most common STIs.
⚕️ This page is educational and does not replace advice from a licensed clinician. If you may have been exposed to an STI, get tested — most infections are manageable, and many are fully curable.
Sources & Further Reading
- CDC — Sexually Transmitted Infections
- CDC STI Treatment Guidelines
- WHO — Sexually transmitted infections fact sheet
- MedlinePlus — Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Figures reflect CDC surveillance and WHO estimates; they are population statistics, not personal risk predictions.