[Herpesviruses in man].

The importance and the extent of the inter-actions between herpes viruses and man is beginning to be understood. As more is learned about the natural histories of these viruses, it is becoming apparent that they have in common: Horizontal spread during childhood, often with subclinical infection. Latency in the host for many years, probably for life. Potential for reactivation at a later time. Host immune response maintained for life. Potential for oncogeneiss. A more thorough knowledge of the biochemistry and the biology of these viruses promises to be the foundation of more effective treatment and prevention.