Can I Spread Herpes By Kissing?

Can I transmit genital herpes by kissing? I have just been diagnosed and have a sore on my buttocks.

Don't worry, you will not transmit genital herpes on your butt to anyone else by kissing them. Herpes is spread from direct contact between the area of infection and the skin of some one else. If you had herpes on the lip, then yes, kissing is a way to spread herpes. Kissing can also spread syphilis but not infections like HIV and rarely gonorrhea or Chlamydia.

It's important to know that there are 2 types of herpes viruses. The type of herpes that usually causes sores on the mouth is type 1 and one that can infect the genital area is type 2-with or without sores. About 3 in 4 US adults have type 1 and 1 in 5 have type 2. Unfortunately, most people who have herpes don't know it. They also don't know that it can be spread at any time-even if you don't have any sores or lesions. . While genital herpes can be painful and uncomfortable appearing, it is, treatable with many different very safe prescription medications. Be wary of non-prescription medications for herpes-they do not work!.

The American Social Health Association runs a national hotline that provides information and materials to anyone concerned about herpes. The hotline [1-800-227-8922] is staffed from 6am to 5pm PST on weekdays.

Another great herpes resource for videos about herpes is at www.Taumed.com.

To your health,
Dr. K

(Photo: Getty Images)

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Dr. K is Jeffrey D. Klausner, MD, MPH, a board-certified internist and infectious disease specialist. Currently, he is a deputy health officer and director of the STD Prevention and Control Services Section at the San Francisco Department of Public Health.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your health care provider.

Comments

[hgirl]

yes, i found many Guy member on a STD dating site named " HerpesLoving. c om", and most of them said they got it by kissing