Here are some good resources for information about Genital Herpes:

http://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/STDFact-herpes.htm

http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/stdherpe.htm

http://www.fda.gov/Fdac/features/2002/202_herp.html

I am sorry for your friend Dorrie, it sounds like she has had a rough time. I hope that these links will offer her (and you) some additional information.

A friend of mine, who has MS and is diabetic, has outbreaks that will cause her MS to flare. She's found that it's important to keep the Herpes under control by taking daily medication (Valtrex), not just when she feels an outbreak coming on.

I hope this answers your question Dizzie Lizzy or adds to what has already been posted.