Syphilis vs. Herpes — What's the Difference?

A transmitted infection caused by bacteria.

A viral infection causing painful sores.

Can be transmitted from mother to child, known as congenital syphilis.

Not curable, but outbreaks are manageable.

Treatable with antibiotics.

Exists in two main types: HSV-1 (oral) and HSV-2 (genital).

Characterized by stages, including primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary.

Can be transmitted even without visible sores.

If untreated, can lead to serious health issues.

Affects millions worldwide, with a significant number unaware of their infection.

A common venereal disease caused by the Treponema pallidum spirochete; symptoms change through progressive stages; can be congenital (transmitted through the placenta)

Any of several viral infections marked by the eruption of small vesicles on the skin or mucous membranes, especially herpes simplex.

(medicine) A viral infection, caused by Human alphaherpesvirus 1 and Human alphaherpesvirus 2, marked by painful, watery blisters in the skin or mucous membranes or on the genitals.

An eruption of the skin, taking various names, according to its form, or the part affected, caused by a herpesvirus infection; especially, an eruption of vesicles in small distinct clusters, accompanied with itching or tingling, including shingles, ringworm, and the like; - so called from its tendency to creep or spread from one part of the skin to another.

Viral diseases causing eruptions of the skin or mucous membrane

Any of the animal viruses that cause painful blisters on the skin

Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, while herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus.

Herpes symptoms include recurring sores or blisters at the site of infection.

Syphilis is transmitted through direct contact with a syphilitic sore, while herpes is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, even without visible sores.

Syphilis can be cured with antibiotics, but herpes cannot be cured, though its symptoms can be managed.

Yes, untreated syphilis can lead to serious issues, including damage to the heart, brain, and nerves.

Syphilis symptoms progress through stages, starting with a sore, followed by a rash, and potentially leading to organ damage if untreated.

Both syphilis and herpes are common worldwide, with millions affected.

There are no vaccines for syphilis or herpes.

Syphilis is treated with antibiotics, while herpes is managed with antiviral medications.

Yes, both infections can be asymptomatic, particularly in their early stages.

Yes, syphilis can be transmitted from mother to child, leading to congenital syphilis. Herpes can also be transmitted to the baby during delivery if the mother has an active outbreak.

Syphilis can be diagnosed through blood tests, while herpes is diagnosed through clinical examination and specific tests for the virus.

Condoms can reduce the risk of transmission of both syphilis and herpes but are not 100% effective, especially for herpes, which can be transmitted through skin areas not covered by condoms.

While herpes does not typically lead to life-threatening conditions, it can cause recurrent painful sores and psychological distress.