Which STDs are caused by viruses?

World AIDS Day is celebrated globally every first of December. Since 1988, this event hopes to increase the awareness for STDs such as HIV and AIDS, which has claimed the lives of millions over the past decades. Like HIV and AIDS, there are also other sexually transmitted diseases that are caused by viruses, and the quest of finding cures for these conditions continues to challenge medical researchers worldwide. Here are some other common viral STDs, including information on STD symptoms, as well as diagnoses and possible forms of treatment.

Herpes is caused by a viral strain known as the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Type 2. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that about 45 million Americans have herpes. The symptoms include sores, fever and flu symptoms, and swollen lymph nodes. Blood tests and laboratory observation of samples may help determine the stage of infection in the patient. There has been no definite treatment for herpes, but there are antiviral drugs that can suppress the symptoms.

Genital HPV, or genital warts, is a viral disease that is brought about by the Human Papilloma Virus. The CDC says that in the US, about 20 million people have HPV, while about 7 million new cases are diagnosed per year. This infection can be apparent in areas such as the cervix, the vulva, rectum, and penis. These appear as bumps that may be raised, and their number can increase if left untreated. A test that can be done for women to determine the presence of HPV and its possible risk for cancer is a cervical cancer screening. There are other HPV related diseases that may arise if the condition is left untreated, including other forms of cancer.

As you can see, viral STDs are not regularly treated by medicines from drug stores. At times, the cost of treating these can be costly, and the success rates tend to vary. If you require more information on viral STDs as well as other forms of STDs, you can consult with STD clinics in your area, as well as undergo an STD test to determine the cause for any symptoms you may be experiencing. In line with acquiring as much information as you can on STDs, a smart way of dealing with these conditions and preventing them is through safe sex practices.