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Transmission of Herpes

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One of my best friends recently found out that she might have genital herpes due to an outbreak. (Her doctor is quite certain she does, but the test results are still pending.) I mentioned this to my boyfriend and now he is freaking out about me having herpes from her. What are the chances of me receiving herpes from my friend? We have no physical contact aside from maybe sharing a drink. I am just curious for his peace of mind. I know there is no way of being sure without going in to be tested but I was just wondering if anyone else knew more about this and how easy it is to get herpes. Thanks!
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replied March 25th, 2007
Extremely eHealthy
I think it is possible, but not terribly likely. You can check these sites for more information.

"How do you get Herpes?

Herpes is spread by direct skin to skin contact. Unlike a flu virus that you can get through the air, herpes spreads by direct contact, that is, directly from the site of infection to the site of contact. For example, if you have a cold sore and kiss someone, you can transfer the virus to their mouth. Similarly, if you have active genital herpes and have vaginal or anal intercourse, you can give your partner genital herpes. Finally, if you have a cold sore and put your mouth on your partners genitals (oral sex), you can give your partner genital herpes."
http://www.herpes.com/Transmission.shtml

"Herpes simplex virus (HSV) does not survive for very long outside of the human body. However, the virus may survive longer if the right temperature and moisture conditions were maintained or in the presence of blood. Transmission of herpes generally requires direct contact involving the mucous membranes (e.g., kissing, sexual contact). If your roommate has frequent cold sores, it would be better not to drink from the same milk box. It would also be advisable not to share the same towel if she has outbreaks of genital herpes. However, milk boxes and towels are not a frequent source of HSV infection - unprotected sex is."
http://www.herpeshealth.com/ask_the_expert /transmission.asp
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replied March 27th, 2007
Experienced User
I think as far as you getting herpes you're pretty safe lol. I mean I guess it also depends on what type of herpes she has, but I really doubt that you have herpes from what you're telling me. Plus, like the other person says, even on a drink it doesnt survive long outside the human body, there usually has to be direct skin to skin contact. I think just for your boyfriend's sake you should get tested, bless his heart lol. Herpes is a scary thing to worry about, having worried about it myself recently. But I don't think you have to worry.
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