Herpes viruses go dormant in nerve cells. They never go away. You can have it and go the rest of your life without a breakout, but that will be because you were healthy. Distress and poor diet will sometimes bring them back. When you feel one coming back the amino acid Lysine helps a lot, it is an over the counter supplement. It is noticeable.
Acyclovir/Zovirax cream helps when applied to a sore or that pre-sore itchiness. It prevents the virus from replicating. It’s by prescription only.