What is the natural history of herpes?

The natural history of herpes, particularly herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections, involves an initial primary infection characterized by symptoms such as painful sores and fever. After the initial outbreak, the virus enters a latent phase, residing in nerve ganglia where it remains inactive. Periodically, the virus can reactivate, leading to recurrent outbreaks that are typically milder and shorter in duration than the primary infection. Over time, the frequency and severity of recurrences may decrease, and many individuals can manage the virus with antiviral medications.