Herpes simplex is a viral disease from the herpesviridae family caused by both Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). Worldwide rates of Herpes simplex disease is between 60 to 95% in adults. In the US, 57.7% of the population are infected with HSV-1 and 16.2% are infected with HSV-2. Once infected, the virus remains in the body for life. Recurrent infections might occur in immunocompromised individuals. Though victims become asymptomatic over the years, they would remain contagious to others.
Aciclovir (acyclovir), valaciclovir (valacyclovir), famciclovir, and penciclovir are some of the antivirals used in treating herpes simplex disease.