You got herpes could you kiss your 4 year old son if am not having outbreaks?

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is an extremely common virus. It is estimated that up to 90% of the population has HSV-1, and most people acquire it in childhood. HSV-1 is the virus that typically causes oral herpes, also known as cold sores or fever blisters.

Although HSV-1 is usually associated with oral lesions, it can also cause lesions on other parts of the body, including the genitals. This is known as genital herpes. Genital herpes is usually caused by HSV-2, but HSV-1 can also cause genital infections.

HSV-1 can be spread through contact with infected saliva or skin. This means that you can spread the virus to your child through kissing, sharing drinks or utensils, or through any other type of close contact. However, it is important to note that you can only spread the virus if you are having an outbreak.

When you have an outbreak, the virus is present in the lesions and is easily spread. However, when you are not having an outbreak, the virus is dormant and is not contagious. This means that if you kiss your child when you are not having an outbreak, you will not spread the virus to them.

It is also important to note that children are less likely to develop serious complications from HSV-1 infection than adults. In most cases, children will experience mild symptoms, such as fever, sore throat, and ulcers in the mouth. Serious complications, such as encephalitis and meningitis, are rare in children.

Therefore, if you have oral herpes, you can kiss your child when you are not having an outbreak. However, it is important to avoid kissing your child when you are having an outbreak, as this could spread the virus to them.