Dictionary of Cancer Terms
View in Spanish: Herpesvirus humano
Human herpesvirus (HYOO-mun HER-peez-VY-rus)
A type of virus that causes herpes infections and has DNA as its genetic material. There are two types of human herpesviruses. Infections with type 1 viruses cause cold sores on the lips or nostrils. Infections with type 2 viruses cause sores on the genitals (external and internal sex organs and glands). Also called herpes simplex virus, HHV, and HSV.
Source: National Cancer Institute Dictionary of Cancer Terms, available at www.cancer.gov/dictionary.