Human herpes simplex virus type 1(HSV-1)infection of the upper respiratory tract is a common,mostly self-limiting disease.Reactivation of HSV-1 can sometimes cause lower respiratory tract infections.Coinfection of HSV-1 and other pathogens in the respiratory tract may cause severe diseases,resulting in HSV pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome.This article reviews the symptoms and pathogenesis of HSV-1 infection or co-infections with other pathogens in the respiratory tract,as well as recent advances on drugs and vaccines for HSV-1.