Now University of Washington researcher Christine Johnston, MD, and colleagues show that people with no herpes symptoms often shed infectious genital herpes virus -- even while taking very high doses of anti-herpes drugs.

Is herpes contagious while on medication?

It is important to keep in mind that Valtrex is not a cure for genital herpes, and there may still be contagious lesions or shedding that occur while taking the medication.

Is herpes type 2 always contagious?

Individuals with genital HSV infection should abstain from sexual activity whilst experiencing symptoms of genital herpes. HSV-2 is most contagious during an outbreak of sores, but can also be transmitted when no symptoms are felt or visible.

How long is HSV-2 contagious?

Once youve contracted HSV, there will be an incubation period — the time it takes from contracting the virus until the first symptom appears. The incubation period for HSV-1 and HSV-2 is the same: 2 to 12 days. For most people, the symptoms begin to show up in about 3 to 6 days.

Does HSV 2 get better over time?

While there is no cure for herpes, the severity of the virus varies over the course of an infected persons lifetime. In fact, some people with the disease do not experience any symptoms for extended periods. They may still shed the virus, though, even when no symptoms are present.