Herpes is a disease that is caused by the herpes simplex virus, part of the same family of viruses that causes the chicken pox, cold sores, and mononucleosis. The two principal types of herpes are oral herpes and genital herpes. Herpes is quite prevalent in the adult population; in many cases, the symptoms may be so mild that a person doesn’t know that they have herpes. While herpes cannot be cured, herpes can be controlled with antiviral drugs, and herpes sufferers can live a normal life, including sexual activity and even giving birth. To prevent the spread of herpes, you should practice safe sex, including the use of a condom during oral sex.  You should also have yourself tested through an STD test.