How is herpes spread?
January 21, 2008
I am a ignorant when it comes to STDs. I know the basics of HIV and hepatitis, but would like to know how 'herpes' is passed on? Is it through sperm or can it be contracted by contact to a persons blister?
Herpes is actually several viruses, Herpes simplex virus type-1 and Herpes simplex virus type-2. HSV-1 is typically found on the lips and in the mouth, while HSV-2 is typically found around the genitals. They are interchangeable though, so you can get either virus in either place.
Herpes symptoms begin with flu-like symptoms of fever, aches, fatigue, loss of appetite, and the like. The distinctive symptoms of herpes start with a burning pain as a group of blisters grow. They eventually break and turn into sores, which crust over and eventually heal.
The virus is transmitted through sex, by exposing the herpes blisters or sores to an uninfected person. Condoms are only partially effective, and although herpes doesn't really grow on fingers, you can spread herpes by accidentally touching an infected area, then touching an uninfected area. This goes for the use of sex toys as well. You can also spread herpes from an infected part of your body to another uninfected part. Sperm doesn't pass along the herpes virus unless it comes into contact with the blister or sore. Although you are most contagious when you have the blisters or sores, you can pass herpes along even when you don't have any.
Herpes is a lifelong condition, but fortunately is more annoying than dangerous in nature. There are treatments that your doctor can prescribe to eliminate the frequency and severity of outbreaks. For more information, check out gayhealth.com.
Herpes symptoms begin with flu-like symptoms of fever, aches, fatigue, loss of appetite, and the like. The distinctive symptoms of herpes start with a burning pain as a group of blisters grow. They eventually break and turn into sores, which crust over and eventually heal.
The virus is transmitted through sex, by exposing the herpes blisters or sores to an uninfected person. Condoms are only partially effective, and although herpes doesn't really grow on fingers, you can spread herpes by accidentally touching an infected area, then touching an uninfected area. This goes for the use of sex toys as well. You can also spread herpes from an infected part of your body to another uninfected part. Sperm doesn't pass along the herpes virus unless it comes into contact with the blister or sore. Although you are most contagious when you have the blisters or sores, you can pass herpes along even when you don't have any.
Herpes is a lifelong condition, but fortunately is more annoying than dangerous in nature. There are treatments that your doctor can prescribe to eliminate the frequency and severity of outbreaks. For more information, check out gayhealth.com.
Comment by Anonymous on January 21, 2008
I want to correct a comment you made on your column. You said that "herpes doesn't really grow on fingers..." This is not true. There is also a specific condition called "herpetic whitlow" involving a herpes infection at the base of the nail.