Do you believe that herpes is only transmitted through sexual touch? If so, you are not alone because there are numerous people in America who believe that. The truth? Herpes can be spread in normal circumstances from one person to another, even among family, friends, or children. Today, we will cover how herpes is transmitted Non Sexually!
This does happen more often than you might think because, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 90% are unaware that they have the virus. Let’s discuss in detail so you can know how it gets spread and how you can save yourself and your loved ones from it.
What is Herpes?
Herpes is a common infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It usually happens in the mouth (oral herpes) or the genital area (genital herpes). It can lead to small blisters filled with fluid that can break open and form a crust. Some people have outbreaks that can be seen, while others carry the virus but don’t have any signs. When someone gets affected, the virus stays in their body forever, sometimes going dormant for a long time before coming back. There is no cure, but if you get the treatment on time, it can help you manage symptoms and reduce the chance of spreading it.
What Do We Mean When We Say non sexual herpes transmission?
When the virus moves from one person to another without sexual touch, this is called non-sexual transmission. The two main types of Herpes virus (HSV) are
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HSV-1
This virus usually causes cold sores around the mouth, but it can also happen in the vaginal area. Oral herpes, which is also known as cold sores or fever blisters, affects 50% of all adults in the United States. Most people get mouth herpes as kids when they get a kiss from a family member or friend.
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HSV-2
Most of the time, HSV-2 is linked to oral herpes, but it can sometimes spread in other ways. One in eight people in the US between the ages of 14 and 49 has genital HSV-2 infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
HSV-2 is mostly sexually transmitted, but HSV-1 is very easy to spread in everyday life, especially among kids, even when there is no sexual behavior.
How Does Someone Spread Herpes Without Sexual Contact
Direct Oral or Skin-to-Skin Contact
One of the main ways HSV-1 gets passed on is by kissing someone who has a cold sore. People from the same family or group of friends can have this happen. If someone touches an open wound, the virus can also be spread that way.
Sharing Personal Items
We all share our stuff with our family members or friends, but that is not recommended. Towels, lip balm, drinking cups, makeup brushes, kitchen tools, and Gym equipment are a few items that can be a reason behind spreading the virus. If these touch a sore and then someone else’s mouth or skin. It doesn’t last long on surfaces, but sharing right after touching someone makes it more likely that they will get it.
Everyday Family or Caregiving Contact
Helping a child wipe their face, sharing snacks, or even just kissing them on the cheek can spread the virus if it’s active or not spreading at all.
Self-Inoculation
If someone touches their own cold sore and then touches another part of their body, like their eye or genitals, they can move the virus from one spot to another.
From Mother to Baby
If the mother already has herpes, the baby can get it during birth. It is called newborn herpes, and even though it is rare, it can be very bad. People who are close to someone who has the virus can sometimes pass it on after birth.
Role of Asymptomatic Shedding
Sheepshank fever is tricky because it can spread even if there are no spots to see. When the virus is on the skin or in saliva but no signs are present, this is called asymptomatic shedding. People can give it to someone else without realizing they have it.
What are the herpes Myths vs. Reality in the US?
Herpes can’t be spread from a bathroom seat, a friendly handshake, or just walking by someone. For the virus to spread, it needs to come into close contact with infected skin or fluids. It’s more likely to spread without sexual contact when sores are open, but it can happen at any time the virus is released.
How To Prevent Herpes Spread?
Not someone else is going to save you. You have to do it on your own and for others. If you have a rash, don’t share things that touch your mouth or face. When you touch your face or someone else’s, wash your hands. Moreover, if you have a cold sore, be careful around babies. Don’t kiss them and wash your hands before touching them.
You have to talk to your family or friends about it if you feel tingly or see a sore beginning. You should also consult your doctor if you have a lot of cold sores, sores that are spreading to new places, or if a baby is exposed. Antivirals can shorten cases and make it less likely that the virus will spread if they are used early on.
It helps get rid of the stigma and promotes safer, nicer interactions when people know it’s not just a “sexual” disease. Now, as you are aware, herpes can spread in ways other than sexual ones, so keep yourself and your loved ones safe without having to live in fear.
FAQs
Can herpes be passed non-sexually?
Yes. Most of the time, cold sores are caused by HSV-1, which can be spread through non-sexual touch. People can get it from kissing, sharing items, drinking from the same glass, or using the same lip balm. This is especially true during an outbreak or when the virus is shedding.
Can dormant herpes be transmitted?
It’s possible, but not very likely. A process called asymptomatic shedding, in which the virus is present on the skin but doesn’t cause signs, can sometimes allow herpes to spread even when there are no sores to be seen. This means that you can give it to someone else even if it seems to be “dormant.”
Is there a herpes that is not sexually transmitted?
Yes. People often get HSV-1 without touching, especially when they are young. Children and adults often get it from kissing, sharing drinks, and other normal touch. Most of the time, HSV-2 is spread through sexual contact. However, HSV-1 can spread in many ways that are not sexual.
How to prevent herpes smell?
If herpes sores start to smell bad, it could be because of an infection or poor health in the area. Use gentle soap and water to clean the area gently. Make sure it stays dry and wear clothes that let air pass through. If the smell doesn’t go away, you should see a doctor because it could be a sign of another problem that needs to be treated.
