Herpes simplex virus type 2 symptoms (genital herpes)

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) can cause groups of small blisters or sores that usually occur on or around the genitals or the anus. This is called genital herpes. In men, genital herpes often appears on the shaft of the penis. In women, it often appears around the opening of the vagina. The sores may be itchy or painful.