Medically speaking, there is no such ailment as 'Harpies disease'. The term is actually a bastardization of the word "Herpes" although it is a relatively common mistake made by people when investigating the ailment and the phrase is now commonly used to describe the condition.
- What is Herpes and how is it transmitted?
Herpes is a viral infection that is spread through contact with someone else who has the disease. This contact can be sexual, or non-sexual in nature and the most obvious indication that someone has been infected is the appearance of a cluster of small blisters in the affected area.
- What are the different strains of the virus?
There are two types of the virus, Herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2. Oral herpes is the most common complaint, with the sexually transmitted disease genital herpes the second most common. Most people who use the term "Harpies disease" usually refer only to oral herpes.
- What are the symptoms of oral herpes?
For oral herpes, around 24-48 hours before the first blisters start to show, the affected area may start to 'tingle' and feel swollen, particularly if you are susceptible to the form of the virus that sees cold sores on the lips develop. Some over-the-counter treatments for the virus recommend that as soon as you feel this tingle, you begin treatment for the outbreak with anti-viral creams and ointments.
After the tingling stage, the blisters begin to appear in small clusters. Without treatment, the blisters can last from between to to 21 days before disappearing.
- Once the blisters have cleared, does this mean I am free from infection?
However, this does not mean that your body is now free from infection. Unfortunately, even the most aggressive forms of treatment is extremely difficult as herpes has a tendency to remain dormant in the body, rather than be eradicated from it.
- How can I reduce further outbreaks of the virus in future?
To stop outbreaks of the disease it is important for sufferers to recognize not only the warning signs of an outbreak, but also the factors that can start an outbreak. These include:
- the use of immunosuppressant drugs
- stress
- depression
- Is there a cure for herpes?
Currently there is no cure for herpes, though there are current clinical trials being conducted surrounding potential cures for several variants of the disease. The best form of treatment seems to be the drugs aciclovir and valaciclovir, which are available in both pills and as tubes of creams.
