Question: If I suffers from cold sores (herpes simplex 1) but not from genital herpes (herpes simplex 2), is it possible for me to pass on the virus to my partner during oral sex; even if I am cold-sore free at the time?
Answer: Unfortunately, yes, even though the chances are slim, either herpes virus -- Herpes Simplex Type 1 (HSV-1) or Herpes Simplex Type 2 (HSV-2), can infect the mouth or genitals and can be transferred from one partner to another even if the infected partner is asymptomatic at the time.
Since there are few faster ways to ruin a relationship than when one partner give the other herpes, lets clear-up some more herpes misinformation that could save you from giving or receiving the gift that keeps on giving.
You can't tell if someone has herpes by the way they look, live or act. Eighty million Americans have herpes -- that's at least one in six adults, including that cute date who forgot to bring condoms.
Intercourse is not the only way herpes is spread. Herpes is spread from skin to skin contact. That means you can get herpes (simplex 1 or simplex 2) from kissing, performing or receiving oral sex, touch an infected area with any part of your body
Some can have herpes and not even know it. Herpes symptoms usually develop within two to 20 days after contact with the virus, however it could take longer and in some cases (especially women) the newly infected person may remain asymptomatic but still be able to pass on the virus to others.
Herpes can be spread between outbreaks, even when no signs or symptoms are present. It can also be spread by asymptomatic people who don't even know they are infected.
You can get herpes in your eyes, on your fingers and on other parts of the body by touching an outbreak. Soap and water will kill the virus on the surface of your skin, however, once you are infected, soap and water will not get rid off herpes sores and herpes outbreaks.
Aside from abstinence, there is no sure fire way to protect yourself from contracting herpes during intimacy with an infected partner. Next to abstinence, using latex condoms is the most recommended safeguard against contracting herpes, but it is not 100% effective.
If you suspect you might have some form of the herpes virus or if you have a partner that has herpes, please see your local health care provider for a diagnosis and medical advise. For more information about herpes, including clinical pictures, frequently asked questions and news about a possible herpes cure, please visit our website at http://www.herpes-pics.com
John Trout is an internet research specialist and web master of several information related websites including: http://www.herpes-pics.com/ where this article was first published. This informative website is an excellent source for a sound education about the herpes virus as well as the latest news about treatments and a possible herpes cure.
