noun
- a family of DNA viruses that cause various infections in humans and animals, including cold sores, genital herpes, chickenpox, and shingles
Usage: medical; plural form
Examples
- Herpesviruses remain dormant in the body after initial infection.
- Scientists are studying how herpesviruses evade the immune system.
- Eight different herpesviruses are known to infect humans.
- The vaccine helps prevent infection by certain herpesviruses.
- Herpesviruses can cause both mild and severe symptoms.
- Research on herpesviruses has led to new antiviral treatments.