What is the primary symptom of a herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection?

The primary symptom of a herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is indeed the development of painful lesions that erupt and ulcerate. After an initial exposure to the virus, individuals often experience vesicular lesions, which can appear as small blisters on the skin or mucous membranes in the affected area. These lesions tend to rupture, leading to painful ulcers that can be quite uncomfortable.

While itching and redness in the genital area, flu-like symptoms with fever, and pelvic pain during intercourse can accompany HSV infections or be present during outbreaks, they are not the defining primary symptoms. The hallmark of HSV infection is the appearance of those painful, ulcerative lesions that typically characterize both primary and recurrent outbreaks. Understanding this can help in recognizing HSV infections and facilitating timely medical intervention.