Managing Herpes

Book excerpt: With 20 percent of the American population now carrying the virus that causes genital herpes, the revised edition of this book, first published in 1994 by a nonprofit organization dedicated to stopping sexually transmitted diseases, is timely and welcome. Written for lay readers, it provides the latest information on the diagnosis and treatment of genital herpes as well as balanced, supportive advice on living with this chronic disease. The author is very reassuring as he tells readers that normal life, including sexual relationships and childbearing, is possible and that several options are available for managing outbreaks. He stresses the importance of open communication and safe sex practices.