Herpes simplex is a virus. There are two types of herpes:
-
Herpes simplex virus type I (cold sores)
- Herpes simplex virus type II (genital herpes)
Genital herpes is passed on through vaginal sex, anal sex, oral sex, sharing sex toys and sometimes kissing (if you or your partner has cold sores around the mouth) or other skin-to-skin contact with sores
It is NOT PASSED ON through hugging or sharing towels
You should avoid sex if you or your partner has sores due to herpes. Condoms do not completely protect against herpes