How does the herpes simplex virus spread?

How does the herpes simplex virus spread?

It is spread through contact, but it is very virulent, so the contact does not have to be direct.Most people get Type 1 infections, which cause cold sores, during infancy or childhood. They usually get it from close contact with family members or friends who carry the virus. It can be transmitted by kissing, sharing eating utensils, or by sharing towels. The sores most commonly affect the lips, mouth, nose, chin, or cheeks and occur shortly after exposure. Patients may barely notice any symptoms or find these sores annoying and seek medical attention.

Most people get Type 2 infections, which cause genital sores, following sexual contact with an infected person. The virus affects anywhere between five and twenty million people, up to 20% of all sexually active adults in the United States.

The lesions of both types of herpes simplex, can be spread by touching an unaffected part of the body immediately after touching a herpes lesion.

Read more: http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/viral_herpes_simplex.html#ixzz1BuUXoW6q

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