Shingles vs. Genital Herpes: Understanding the Key Differences

Herpes zoster (shingles) and genital herpes are caused by related but separate viruses of the viral family herpesviridae. Herpes zoster is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), also known as human herpesvirus-3 (HHV-3), while genital herpes is most commonly caused by HHV-2, also known as herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2).

Features

• VZV is commonly contracted during childhood, at which time it causes chickenpox. HSV-2 is normally contracted through genital contact with an infected person, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Considerations

• Both viruses remain within the system of an infected person, although there are periods when they do not cause symptoms. There is no cure for either virus.

Effects

• Both herpes zoster and genital herpes cause a red rash, on top of which appear blisters. Genital herpes affects the genitals and surrounding area, while herpes zoster affects most commonly the trunk of the body or the face, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Treatment

• Both conditions are treated with a common group of antiviral drugs (acyclovir, valacyclvir and famciclovir), though a number of other medications are used to manage the pain of shingles.

Time Frame

• Both conditions clear up on their own without treatment but may recur (especially in the case of genital herpes), causing another episode.