Herpesvirus << HUR peez `vy` ruhs >> is the name of a family of viruses that cause a wide variety of diseases. Herpesviruses cause such conditions as chickenpox, cold sores, genital sores, mononucleosis, and shingles.
Herpesviruses may be present in the body without producing signs of illness. People infected with herpesviruses may experience symptoms that go away, then reappear months or years later. The viruses are spread through direct physical contact with an infected person.
