Herpes cannot be cured. Once either virus is inside the body and settles itself into the nerve cells, it cannot be eliminated. However, herpes sores can be treated. Treatment can speed up healing time, reduce pain, and delay or prevent additional flare-ups.

Typically, treatment is used only during a flare-up. This is called “episodic therapy.” In people with compromised immune systems, flare-ups can be frequent and may require long-term therapy to prevent recurrences.   More detail...