what causes herpes on skin

Herpes on the skin is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) . There are two types of HSV: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 mostly spreads by oral contact and causes infections in or around the mouth (oral herpes or cold sores). It can also cause genital herpes. HSV-2 spreads by sexual contact and causes genital herpes. Herpes simplex viruses spread from person to person through close contact. You can get a herpes simplex virus from touching a herpes sore. Most people, however, get herpes simplex from an infected person who does not have sores. Doctors call this “asymptomatic viral shedding” . A person with an oral herpes outbreak may first feel itching, burning, or tingling around the mouth, lips, or tongue. Later, cold sores or small blisters may develop in these areas or anywhere on the skin. A herpes rash usually develops on the genitals or around the mouth, but it can occur nearly anywhere on the body.