How do I reduce the risk of passing Herpes Simplex on to others?

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Practicing safer sex  may help  to prevent the infection being passed on to others.  The surest way to avoid transmission of sexually transmitted infections including Herpes Simplex, is to abstain from sexual contact or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected.  

Genital ulcer diseases, like Herpes Simplex  can occur in both male and female genital areas that are covered or protected by a latex condom, as well as in areas that are not covered. Correct and consistent use of latex condoms can reduce the risk of genital herpes, as well as syphilis  and chancroid, only when the infected area or site of potential exposure is protected.

Avoiding alcohol and drug use may also help prevent transmission of syphilis because these activities may lead to risky sexual behavior. It is important that sex partners talk to each other about their HIV status and history of other STDs so that preventive action can be taken.

Transmission of an STD, including herpes simplex cannot be prevented by washing the genitals, urinating, and/or douching after sex. Any unusual discharge, sore, or rash, particularly in the groin area, should be a signal to refrain from having sex and to see a doctor immediately.

Aciclovir, famciclovir, and valaciclovir al suppress symptomatic and asymptomatic viral shedding. These drugs have been shown in clinical trials to reduce asymptomatic HSV shedding by about 80 - 90%.

There are no vaccines currently approved for prevention of genital herpes although trials are ongoing.

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