I'll check out that handbook link sometime. I like www.ashastd.org. Great information on that website, about lots of different things. Thanks for all you do Grace. I know people put you through the ringer sometimes but you are appreciated!
I don't think gayla spends much time updating her site any more :( She used to be really into it all but I think she's gotten out of it pretty much. And I totally agree - it's far too "busy" .
http://www.westoverheights.com/genital_herpes/handbook.html is the link to the online resource I often refer to here. It's been available for 20 years now ( obviously not online that whole time...lol ) and it is constantly updated by Terri Warren who is very actively involved in herpes research and also lectures for both gsk and novartis to health professionals about herpes.
You can also get reliable herpes info at www.ashastd.org ( their site seems to be down for maintanence this weekend though ). They also have a herpes message board there and a herpes hot line you can call ( for a fee ).
grace
I went to that website and found it kind of "busy". Maybe it's just me, or it could be my browser. I think a question like the difference between HSV1 and HSV2, can be answered pretty simply. So many people wonder about this one, even me, so I decided to look it up.
You don't have to buy the handbook - it's completely free!! You can either read it online, download it to your computer or print it out to read on paper. I would never keep recommending something for basic herpes info that you would have to pay for!! why should anyone keep repeating the basics non-stop when folks are completely capable of learning it for themselves for free and then can come back and ask questions they still have? It also helps to be able to go back and refer to it periodically as needed.
Also there are 4 FDA approved herpes blood tests currently in the US. Ironically the "gold standard" of herpes blood testing is not FDA approved , nor will it probably ever be ( the herpes WB ).
grace
Why does everyone have to buy a book these days!!!
Under the microscope, HSV1 and HSV2 are virtually identical, sharing approximately 50% of the same DNA. The big difference is where these 2 versions of the same virus like to reside within the body. About 80% of the population has HSV1. About 85% of the people with herpes are unaware that they have herpes.
There are only two FDA-approved type-specific tests on the market. Herpes Select 1 and 2 ELISA produced by Focus Technologies and POCkit HSV-2 rapid point of care produced by Diagnology. Remember, herpes thrives on ignorance.
The primary difference between the two types is their “site of preference” when establishing latency in the body. HSV 1 usually establishes latency in the trigeminal ganglion, a collection of nerve cells found near the ears. Recurring outbreaks will generally occur around the mouth or facial region.
HSV 2 usually establishes latency in the sacral ganglion, a collection of nerves found at the lower base of the spine. HSV-2 recurring outbreaks will generally occur in the genital region.
I copied this information from a website called herpesonline.org.
You need to read the herpes handbook at www.westoverheights.com. Every question you've asked tonight is answered in there!!!
grace