Can HSV-1 be in the genital area?
Two types of herpes simplex virus infections can cause genital herpes: HSV-1. This is the type that usually causes cold sores or fever blisters around your mouth. HSV-1 is often spread through skin-to-skin contact, though it can be spread to your genital area during oral sex.
Can I spread HSV-1 to other parts of my body?
Herpes can also be spread from one area of the body to another via contact with or touching an infected area. Viral shedding may occur in the absence of blisters, so transmission is possible when lesions are absent. Most transmission occurs in absence of sores.
How common is HSV-1 genital?
Genital herpes, caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2, affects one out of every six people in the U.S. age 14 to 49. Genital herpes infections can be asymptomatic, or can show up as outbreaks of blisters or sores. These common viral conditions are transmitted through intimate person-to-person contact.
What do I do if I have HSV-1?
He says herpes outbreak prevention may involve taking a once- or twice-daily antiviral medication, and the treatment of active outbreaks involves topical treatment, an antiviral medication, and sometimes a painkiller.
When is HSV-1 contagious?
HSV-1 is very contagious. You can spread the virus even when you don’t have any symptoms of a cold sore, though you’re usually most contagious when you have them. However, this is much less likely than if contact occurred when a cold sore was present.
Can you transmit HSV-1 without an outbreak?
Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 are most contagious when sores are present, but can also be transmitted when no symptoms are felt or visible. For sexually active people, consistent and correct use of condoms is the best way to prevent genital herpes and other STIs.
What causes HSV-1 flare up?
HSV -1 usually causes cold sores. HSV -2 is usually responsible for genital herpes. But either type can spread to the face or genitals through close contact, such as kissing or oral sex. Shared eating utensils, razors and towels might also spread HSV -1.