How to Reduce the Risk of Spreading Herpes

Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus and is commonly thought of as oral herpes, characterized by cold sores on the mouth, or genital herpes, characterized by blisters/sores in the genital area. The virus is easily transferred from person to person through direct contact with an infected person, entering your body through a break in your skin (anywhere from your mouth to your anus can be affected). The virus can be transmitted at any time, even when the infected person has no symptoms. Reducing the spread of herpes is important because there is no cure for the disease.

Things You'll Need

• Doctor/health care provider
• Prescription for suppressive medication
• Latex condoms

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Instructions

• 1

  If you think that you might have herpes, make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. The condition is most easily diagnosed when you have visible sores, and your doctor will want to begin treatment as early as possible.

• 2

  If you are in a sexual relationship (or beginning a sexual relationship), your partner should be tested and made aware of your condition. According to Bay Area Friends, to minimize the risk of transmitting the virus, it is crucial for both partners to be aware of their herpes status.

• 3

  Avoid having sexual contact during a herpes outbreak because the virus is most easily transmitted when you have a sore. "Prodromal symptoms" such as tingling or itching on your skin are signs that an outbreak is imminent. If this occurs, begin abstaining from sexual contact until the area is completely healed.

• 4

  Use latex condoms every time you engage in sexual intercourse. Condoms will prevent transmission if they cover the area affected by herpes outbreaks.

• 5

  According to Bay Area Friends, medications such as Valtrex can help to suppress the virus and reduce the risk of passing the virus to your partner by 50 percent. Talk to your doctor about medications that may help to shorten your outbreaks and reduce your risk of infecting others.

• 6

  Adopt a healthy diet and low-stress lifestyle to help boost your immune system and reduce the occurrence of outbreaks that you experience. This, in turn, helps to reduce your risk of transmitting the infection to your partner.