Genital herpes. Light micrograph of vaginal cells infected with herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2). At centre is a multinucleated giant cell, which is typical of this infection. Also seen are inclusion bodies (dark spots), which are the site of viral assembly. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that causes inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes, characterized by fluid-filled blisters. There is no cure for herpes simplex infection, but outbreaks can be treated with the antiviral drug acyclovir.