Someone asked us: Can herpes be dormant for 30 years?
It's completely possible for herpes to be dormant (not active) in your body for 30 years. The herpes viruses, both HSV-1 and HSV-2, can be dormant for a long time, sometimes even for decades, without causing any problems or noticeable symptoms on your body.
When the herpes virus is dormant, it hides in your body and may wake up or be activated later, causing outbreaks. Things like feeling stressed, getting sick, having your period, being pregnant, or having a weakened immune system may cause the virus to become active again after many years of not being active.
Herpes is a very common infection that stays with you forever. It's important to remember that everyone's body reacts differently to herpes. Some people may never experience noticeable symptoms, while others might have outbreaks from time to time.
If you’re worried about herpes, you can talk to a nurse or doctor like the ones at your nearest Planned Parenthood health center. Remember, you're not alone, and people with herpes have relationships, have sex, and live perfectly healthy lives.
Tags: herpes