A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has herpes simplex virus type 2. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. "I am only contagious while the lesions are present.": HSV-2 can be transmitted even when no lesions are visible due to asymptomatic viral shedding. Relying solely on the presence of lesions for precautions increases the risk of spreading the virus. B. "The lesions may reoccur in times of stress.": HSV-2 can reactivate during periods of stress, illness, or immunosuppression, leading to recurrent genital lesions. Understanding this helps the client anticipate and manage flare-ups appropriately. C. "The virus cannot spread to areas other than the genital area.": HSV-2 can infect other areas through direct contact, such as oral-genital transmission or autoinoculation. Clients should be aware of the potential for spreading the virus beyond the genital region. D. "I can have unprotected sex as long as I am taking acyclovir.": Antiviral therapy reduces viral shedding but does not eliminate the risk of transmission. Safe sex practices, including condom use, remain necessary to prevent spreading HSV-2 to partners.