Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is a common virus primarily responsible for genital herpes, a sexually transmitted infection. It typically causes painful blisters or ulcers in the genital area and is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. HSV-2 infections often remain unrecognized because symptoms can be mild or mistaken for other conditions. Once infected, the virus resides dormant in sensory nerve cells and can reactivate periodically, causing recurrent outbreaks. HSV-2 differs from HSV-1, which mostly causes oral herpes (cold sores around the mouth) but can also cause genital lesions. HSV-2 is mainly spread through genital contact and is more commonly linked to recurrent genital herpes than HSV-1. The infection affects a substantial portion of the adult population, with about 11.9% of people aged 14-49 in the U.S. infected. Globally, an estimated 520 million people aged 15-49 have HSV-2. While there is no cure for HSV-2, antiviral medications can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks. HSV-2 infection also increases the risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV. Many people with HSV-2 are unaware of their infection, which contributes to its spread. Diagnosis is often made by clinical examination, laboratory tests like PCR from lesion swabs, or serological testing. In summary, HSV-2 is a lifelong viral infection causing genital herpes, spread mainly through sexual contact, with periodic symptoms of painful genital sores, and is managed but not cured by current antiviral treatments. If you'd like, I can provide more details on symptoms, transmission, diagnosis, or treatment.