Herpes does not go away completely once a person is infected. The virus stays in the body for life, even if symptoms disappear for long periods. Many people have no signs at all after the first episode, which can make it feel like the infection is gone.
After the initial infection, the virus becomes inactive and remains hidden in nerve cells. At times, it can reactivate and cause outbreaks such as sores or blisters, though these are often milder and shorter over time. Treatment can reduce how often outbreaks happen and how severe they are, but it does not eliminate the virus from the body.
Herpes can also be spread even when there are no visible symptoms, due to silent viral shedding. Using protection during sexual contact and avoiding skin-to-skin contact during outbreaks lowers the risk of transmission. Many people live normal lives with herpes and may go long stretches without symptoms.
Antiviral medications should only be taken under medical guidance and not started on your own. For ongoing symptoms, frequent outbreaks, or concerns about transmission, follow-up with a primary care doctor or an infectious disease specialist is recommended.