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How Is Herpes Contracted?
Question: I tested positive for herpes today. Is there anyway to tell how long ago I contracted it? I am in the middle of a very strong outbreak.
Brief Answer:
not possible..
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
The time of exposure cannot be predicted. All I can say is primary lesion from herpes develops anywhere beyond 4 to 7 days after contact. The vesicles usually erode to form ulcers that may coalesce. Lesions may occur on the prepuce, glans penis, and penile shaft in men and on the labia, clitoris, perineum, vagina, and cervix in women. They may occur around the anus and in the rectum in men or women who engage in receptive rectal intercourse.
However the duration from contact to eruptions can vary widely in recurrent herpes and sometimes the disease can remain dormant for long periods of time. Hence it's absolutely not possible to give the period of contact.
Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.
Regards,
Dr.Vivek
not possible..
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
The time of exposure cannot be predicted. All I can say is primary lesion from herpes develops anywhere beyond 4 to 7 days after contact. The vesicles usually erode to form ulcers that may coalesce. Lesions may occur on the prepuce, glans penis, and penile shaft in men and on the labia, clitoris, perineum, vagina, and cervix in women. They may occur around the anus and in the rectum in men or women who engage in receptive rectal intercourse.
However the duration from contact to eruptions can vary widely in recurrent herpes and sometimes the disease can remain dormant for long periods of time. Hence it's absolutely not possible to give the period of contact.
Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.
Regards,
Dr.Vivek
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Brief Answer:
Possible that he was infected first
Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX
Thanks for writing in with an update.
Transmission of herpes is through close contact including kissing and sex. Herpes is a very common condition but everyone having the infection may not have signs of disease. Herpes especially flares up when the immunity decreases and just as you have said, it was diagnosed when you had flu.
It is possible that he had herpes infection from before if you have single partner or not come in contact with a person infected with herpes.
Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.
Regards,
Dr.Vivek
Possible that he was infected first
Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX
Thanks for writing in with an update.
Transmission of herpes is through close contact including kissing and sex. Herpes is a very common condition but everyone having the infection may not have signs of disease. Herpes especially flares up when the immunity decreases and just as you have said, it was diagnosed when you had flu.
It is possible that he had herpes infection from before if you have single partner or not come in contact with a person infected with herpes.
Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.
Regards,
Dr.Vivek
Note: Consult a Sexual Diseases Specialist online for further follow up- Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
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