Herpes Virus Persistence: Does It Stay in Your Body Forever?

Yes, once a person is infected with the herpes virus, it stays in the body for life. Even if the symptoms are not present, the virus can still be transmitted to others. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) usually causes oral herpes, also known as fever blisters or cold sores, and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) usually causes genital herpes. Both types of herpes can also cause infections in other parts of the body, such as the eyes, skin, or brain.