So far, studies in mice have shown that the gel completely blocks infection.
There is currently no protection that can last for days without reapplication or as an alternative for people who do not want to use condoms.
The virus can sit latent in cells for long periods of time and the person may not know they have it and can pass it on to partners.
When the virus is active, it can cause painful symptoms and distress. While these symptoms are treatable, there is currently no cure.
Scientists have been looking at developing a vaccine, but this is still some time away.
At the moment, the best way to stop the virus is to prevent transmission.
The gel, developed by Dr. Judy Lieberman and colleagues at Harvard Medical School, blocks the transmission of herpes by destroying the virus.
