A nurse is providing teaching to an antepartum client who has a new diagnosis of genital herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2). Which of the following information should the nurse include?

Choice A rationale Although antiviral medications such as acyclovir or valacyclovir can suppress viral replication and reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of outbreaks, they do not eliminate the virus from the body. Genital herpes simplex virus (HSV-2) infection is a chronic, lifelong condition for which there is currently no known cure, therefore, medication will only manage the symptoms. Choice B rationale Genital herpes simplex virus (HSV-2) can be transmitted vertically from mother to fetus or newborn, particularly during a primary infection in pregnancy or during vaginal birth. Neonatal herpes infection can be severe or fatal, causing disseminated disease, central nervous system involvement, or mucocutaneous lesions, thus, it is a significant risk to the developing fetus/newborn. Choice C rationale The risk of neonatal transmission of HSV-2 is significantly higher (around 25. Choice D rationale Wearing tight-fitting undergarments can increase heat and moisture in the genital area, leading to friction and irritation of the lesions, which can prolong healing and increase discomfort during an outbreak. Clients are advised to wear loose-fitting cotton undergarments to keep the area dry and promote air circulation, which helps with lesion healing.