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Question:
How long do you think people living with genital herpes can wait before we see a cure? Also, are researchers even looking for a cure? Do researchers need funds?
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Answer:
by Georgan Gregg: (03/12/2005)
I cannot give you a time frame for how long a cure will take for genital herpes. Virus, including herpes, are of great interest to researchers. Yes, funding is needed, but we’re simply still in the early learning stages of how to deal with viruses ability to mutate, which makes treatment more difficult. However, the good news is that there are medications to speed the healing process during an outbreak & to reduce the number of outbreaks. I agree with what you seemed to be saying in your other comments-that the emotional impact of herpes is worse than the physical issues. The positive side is that learning all you can about herpes & getting support makes a big difference.
Most people are embarrassed & feel they are the only one when first told they have an STD (sexually transmitted disease). But like other life challenges, knowledge is power. While it is true that you will be facing sexual & relationship issues because you have herpes, your attitude makes a world of difference. The more you learn & communicate, the more likely you will find the difficulties decrease.
I suggest you phone the National Herpes Hotline from 9am-7pm Eastern Time M-F at 919/361-8488 (NOT a toll free call, but the best source), being sure to also get written information they offer. Next, check out the Herpes Web ring at www.herpes.org/webring. After learning all the facts, you can gain support & empathy by using the same site to contact others with herpes. Since you also mentioned being fearful to start relationships because of herpes, I suggest that once you feel informed & comfortable with herpes information, you can visit www.ashastd.org for tips on how & when to tell a potential partner.
Especially if you are having breakouts, talk to your doctor about the 3 antiviral medications approved by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA): Zovirax® (acyclovir), Famvir® (famciclovir) & Valtrex® (valacyclovir). Also, if you have been diagnosed with genital herpes in the last 6 months, you may be able to participate in a local study & receive free medication & medical care in the process. http://www.ashastd.org/pdfs/Valtrex.pdf.
You’ve made a good start in dealing with this situation by contacting us. I assure you that things *will* get less stressful for you. Good luck!Reviewed by: Patricia Fawver Ph.D. in Sexology
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