Herpes simplex is a viral isease caused by Herpes simplex viruses (HSV). Infection with the herpes virus is categorized into one of several distinct disorders based on the site of infection. Oral herpes, the visible symptoms of which are colloquially called cold sores, infects the face and mouth. Infection of the genitals, commonly known as herpes, is the second most common form of herpes. Disorders such as herpetic whitlow, herpes gladiatorum, ocular herpes, herpes encephalitis, Mollaret's meningitis, neonatal herpes, and possibly Bell's palsy are also caused by herpes simplex viruses. Herpes simplex is not typically life-threatening for immunocompetent people.