Herpes is a problematic viral infection that causes outbreak of blisters in various regions of the body such as the lips, mouth, gums and genital areas like the penis, vagina and anus. Once this virus enters the body it never leaves and so people suffering from herpes have to experience the problematic symptoms associated with this virus for the rest of their lives. Direct skin contact with infected area along with sexual contact is the primary cause of herpes spread.

Any direct contact with the sores and fluid within the blisters can result in herpes spread. Quite often the transmission of this virus occurs from people who are completely unaware that they carry this infection. The risk of transmitting this virus starts at the prodrome stage when itching and tingling of the skin is experienced.

Herpes spread occurs due to direct contact with the infection site. Likewise touching, caressing and kissing that involves the active areas can result in transmission of this virus. So if a person having oral herpes indulges in kissing with someone who is not infected then transmission of the virus through saliva may occur.

Herpes spread also results from sexual contact which may include oral sex, vaginal and anal sex. Such transmission can occur particularly when the virus is active and sores or blisters are present. However the transfer of virus can occur even when no clear symptoms are present. Sharing of glasses, lipsticks and other items like cigarettes when cold sores are present can also cause transfer of virus.

Herpes spread can also be observed when a mother infected with this virus transfers it to her baby in pregnancy or at the time of the birth. So any woman who has herpes and who is pregnant should bring this to the notice of her physician so that precautions can be taken. In some cases a caesarean section may be need so as to prevent the transmission of this infection to the child.

In some cases the virus can be transferred from the area of the outbreak to some other place in the body. So by touching a sore some other areas of the body can become infected. Other areas that can be affected by such herpes spread include fingers and eyes. Self infection can be prevented by avoiding contact with infected areas during outbreaks. It is also important that patients wash their hands with warm water and soap to prevent self infection.

Herpes cannot be transferred through the air or through inanimate objects such as toilet seats and spa surfaces. This is because the virus cannot survive outside the body for long. Transmission of virus in the absence of symptoms is called asymptomatic transmission. It is advisable to abstain from sexual contact during the time the symptoms are present.

Likewise using protection in the form of condoms is also extremely important. It is important for herpes patients to limit their sexual partners to prevent herpes spread. Babies can get this virus if they are kissed by anyone having cold sores. This is because a young child cannot easily fight off infections as adults can.