Role of Hands In Spreading HSV1 (oral)

[glazed donut]

Can oral herpes be transmitted through the hands? Can the hands of an asymptomatic carrier shed?

[JBnATL]

Yes they can but he likelihood of that happening is very small.

Many people when they are first diagnosed believe every little scratch, bump, cut, tingle is herpes no matter where it is. If you use common sense like washing your hands you can prevent it from spreading.

Come to the Chat Room, there you will find many nice Herpsters that can offer you their support.

Good luck!

JB

[glazed donut]

Thanks for the response. I'm not sure which question you are responding to. I understand that Oral HSV1 can be transmitted when by a hand touching the lesion and carrying the pus to an open place in the skin on the body. But the second question really is: do the uninfected hands shed?

LM

[MsLucy]

Shedding only occurs at the infection site. If you have oral H, the shedding would be from your facial area. If you touch the sore, then wash your hands, no shedding will occur from the hands. Once any infected cells are washed away, they're gone. Hope that helps.

[glazed donut]

Thanks, MsLucy, that is somewhat helpful.