Readers learn that genital herpes is an incurable sexually transmitted infection which afflicts some 45 million Americans, with one new case added every minute.

The two strains of herpes simplex virus implicated in the disease are identified, its transmission via unprotected skin contact is described, and the symptoms are listed.

Readers are warned that the painful symptoms of a genital herpes outbreak can be treated, but the virus remains in the system permanently; that frequent symptomatic flare-ups are all but inevitable, and that the disease can be transmitted by unprotected sexual contact even between outbreaks.

Abstaining from sex or a strictly monogamous relationship with a single uninfected partner are stressed as preventive measures. Condom use is urged, with the caveat that condoms may not cover all infected areas.

Readers seeking more information are referred to In the Know Zone, Fox Pro Media's free STD information Web site, and to the National STD Hotline.