There are various types of herpes. When fever blisters appear around the mouth it's called lip herpes (Latin name: Herpes labialis). This is caused by a virus called Herpes simplex 1 (HSV 1). Genital herpes results in painful blisters and sores round the genitals and is usually caused by the Herpes simplex 2 virus (HSV 2).

It's relatively easy to pick up herpes. Especially if you come into contact with herpes sores and the yellowish liquid from the blisters.

Herpes can't be cured. The viruses stay in the body at the point of infection your whole life long. And can keep producing blisters and sores – especially at times of stress.

But you really should get treatment. The virus doesn't disappear but the blisters are less painful and go away again faster. Apart from that, when the blisters burst, they are very contagious, and you've got open places on your skin – which can easily let other disease-causing agents into your body.