How does herpes infect? All about infection through cold sores and sexually transmitted herpes

Herpes is a regular viral infection that many people carry without knowing it. But how does herpes really infect and when is there the greatest risk of being infected? Here we take a closer look at the different pathways and times when herpes can be transferred from one person to another.

How does herpes infect?

Herpes infects primarily through direct contact with an infected person's skin, mucous membranes or body fluids. There are two types of herpes virus: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which often causes cold sores, and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) typically associated with genital herpes. However, both types can infect both orally and gender, depending on the nature of the contact.

Cold sores infection 

Cold sores caused by HSV-1 typically infect through kisses or close physical contact with someone who has active wounds or blisters. The virus can also be transferred by sharing personal objects such as toothbrushes, lip balms or towels that have been in contact with the infected area. It is important to note that one can infect others even when there are no visible symptoms as the virus may be present on the skin's surface.

When does herpes infect?

Herpes infects the most when a person has active outbreaks with visible wounds or blisters. However, herpes can also infect infection for periods without visible symptoms, known as asymptomatic excretion. This happens when the virus is active on the skin's surface, even if the infected person has no sign of an outbreak. The risk of infection is higher when there is a break in the skin, but it is possible to get infected even without obvious symptoms.

Herpes pathways of infection

Herpes infects primarily through skin-to-skin contact. HSV-1 most often infects through kisses or close contact with the mouth, while HSV-2 is primarily transferred by sexual contact. However, both types can infect between mouth and genitals, especially by oral sex. It is also possible to get infected by touching an area that has been in contact with the virus, and then touching your own or others' skin.

How can one reduce the risk of herpes infection?

To minimize the risk of infecting others with herpes, it is important to avoid contact with the infected areas during an outbreak. Using a condom can reduce the risk of transfer, but does not completely protect as herpes can infect areas that are not covered by the condom. It is also recommended to avoid sharing personal items and maintaining good hygiene.

Are you in doubt about the symptoms of herpes, and How herpes are treated?

You can get more information about herpes symptoms here, and get information about the possibilities of processing herpes in our Article.

Faq about herpes infection

• Can herpes infection from mouth to genitals?
  Yes, herpes can infect from mouth to genitals, especially by oral sex. HSV-1, which usually causes cold sores, can be transferred to the genitals if there is contact with an infected person's mouth.
• How big is the chance of infecting with herpes?
  The chances of infection with herpes vary depending on several factors, including the type of herpes virus, the frequency of outbreaks, and whether there are visible symptoms. Using the protection and avoidance of contact during outbreaks can significantly reduce the risk.
• Can you be infected with herpes without knowing it?
  Yes, many people are infected with herpes without knowing it, as the virus can be present in the body without causing symptoms. This is called asymptomatic excretion and it is still possible to infect others even without symptoms.
• Is it safe to have sex if I or my partner have herpes?
  It is possible to have sex if one of you has herpes, but it is important to take precautions to reduce the risk of infection. Using a condom can reduce the risk, but it does not completely protect. Avoid sex during an active outbreak and consider talking to a doctor about antiviral medication that can reduce the danger of infection.

Test for herpes

If you wish to clarify if you are infected with herpes, you can buy a herpes test here.