What is the most common form of herpes simplex virus, and where does it infect?

The most common form of herpes simplex virus is the type that predominantly affects the mouth and lips, known as herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), as well as herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which primarily infects the genitals. However, both types can cause infections in either area. HSV-1 is widely recognized for causing oral herpes, typically manifesting as cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth. Meanwhile, HSV-2 is primarily associated with genital herpes. Because both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can reside in and infect these regions, the correct answer encompasses the dual nature of herpes simplex virus infections, covering both common sites: the mouth and lips as well as the genital area. This effectively highlights the virus's capacity to target multiple anatomically distinct locations.