The common name for the viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Two types of herpes simplex exist. Unsurprisingly, they are called Herpes simplex type I and Herpes simplex type II. Type I is oral herpes and type II is genital herpes and they are different strains of herpes simplex but have been known to cross infect, especially in this day and age where oral sex is more prevalent.

Medically, the cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and the Varicella Zoster virus (VZV) also belong to the herpes virus family. EBV causes infectious mononucleosis, otherwise known as the 'kissing disease' while VZV is the cause of chickenpox.

There is no 'cure' for herpes (of any type) but acyclovir and other antiviral agents have been shown to dramatically improve symptoms.