Hi. Thanks for writing to us. I have gone through your query and can understand your concerns.. As per your complain Herpes Simplex Virus is when once exposed to your body it remains in your body for lifetime although in small numbers.. But when the number of virus particles is increased there is an outbreak of infection.. In case if you do not have an outbreak and you are on medication, then in that case chances of transmission of infection through oral sex or kissing is very low, however you need to get a blood test done to rule out the exact viral count to find out whether it is contagious or not.. As far as eating and drinking together is concerned, yes if there are open sores present then eating and drinking with same glasses and plates or using same towels can cause transmission of infection.. As the virus particle cannot stay alive when exposed to air and die within seconds, therefore the virus will die as soon as exposed to air.. Therefore infection via any surface that is air exposed are less and more chances of communication of infection are through body to body contact and more specifically during open sores.. Hope this information helps.. Thanks and regards. Dr.Honey Nandwani Arora