Which herpes virus is responsible for genital herpes?

The herpes virus responsible for genital herpes is Herpes simplex II. This virus is specifically associated with infections that manifest in the genital area. It typically causes painful sores and blisters in that region and can also lead to systemic symptoms, especially during initial outbreaks.

Herpes simplex I, on the other hand, is primarily associated with oral herpes, often leading to cold sores around the mouth. Varicella zoster virus causes chickenpox and can reactivate to cause shingles, while Epstein-Barr virus is known for its role in infectious mononucleosis and is linked with certain cancers. None of these other viruses primarily cause genital herpes, making Herpes simplex II the distinctive agent responsible for this specific condition.