DEAR DR. GOTT: My 60-year-old friend seems to suffer from frequent herpes-simplex-virus outbreaks on her buttock. She uses hydrogen peroxide and covers the sore with a bandage. Is she supposed to cover the area? Is there a medication she can apply to shorten the duration and repetition of bouts? Is there any food she should avoid to prevent attacks? Please illuminate me on this problem.

DEAR READER: Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that includes sores, pain and itching of the buttocks, inner thighs and around the genital area. It results from a type of herpes simplex virus that enters the body through small breaks in the skin or mucous membranes. The virus is spread primarily through unprotected sexual contact. Illness, stress, fatigue, friction and more can induce outbreaks.
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