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Is HSV-1 Contagious?

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Posted on Thu, 30 Jun 2016
Question: Hi, I've been asked out on a date with a girl who told me today she is hsv1 positive, and that she had it on her cervix. I really don't know a lot about hsv1, I've never had a cold sore that I'm aware of; but she's told me she's had serious relationships with others since finding out in 2011 and never passed it. What should I know?
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Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (27 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
there is a risk for transmission

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

HSV1 is one the herpes viruses that usually affects the lips. It may affect other areas too as you've found out already. Unprotected sexual contact may result in transmission even if your partner does not have active lesions because of viral shedding. This means that viruses are present even if her herpes is in remission. Nobody can predict when transmission may occur. Low dose valacyclovir can be used to reduce the likelihood of transmission. Protection with condom is recommended.

Kind Regards!
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :1999

Answered : 3809 Questions

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Is HSV-1 Contagious?

Brief Answer: there is a risk for transmission Detailed Answer: Hello, HSV1 is one the herpes viruses that usually affects the lips. It may affect other areas too as you've found out already. Unprotected sexual contact may result in transmission even if your partner does not have active lesions because of viral shedding. This means that viruses are present even if her herpes is in remission. Nobody can predict when transmission may occur. Low dose valacyclovir can be used to reduce the likelihood of transmission. Protection with condom is recommended. Kind Regards!