Genital herpes is a common infection caused by a virus. Most people who are infected with the virus do not have any symptoms. If you do get symptoms, they are similar to having cold sores (blisters, sores, redness, pain, itching) on your genitals. After the first outbreak of symptoms, you may have new outbreaks, or 'recurrences'. See Also - Genital Herpes: the facts      What are the symptoms of genital herpes?      What will happen next? Although there is no cure once a person is infected with the genital herpes virus, the symptoms can be controlled with medication, and safer sex practices can reduce the risk of passing the infection on to partners. There is a lot you can do to take control of the condition. Getting all the facts is the first step.