Do people with herpes have a shorter life span?

No, people with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) do not have a shorter life span. These viruses are very common, and most people who have them do not experience any serious health problems. In fact, many people are not even aware that they have herpes, as it can be asymptomatic.