Which herpes virus primarily affects the lips and mouth?

Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) is primarily known for affecting the lips and mouth, often manifesting as oral herpes or cold sores. This virus commonly causes painful blisters or sores around the mouth and is typically transmitted through direct contact. In contrast, Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2) is more often associated with genital herpes and is primarily transmitted through sexual contact. Varicella-Zoster Virus is responsible for chickenpox and shingles, affecting the skin and nerves rather than the mouth specifically. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to a variety of conditions, including some oral cancers, but does not primarily cause lesions or infections in the mouth and lips as HSV-1 does. Therefore, HSV-1 is the primary virus associated with lesions in these areas.