Herpes Simplex virus

Hi doc
   I had a question regarding the herpes simplex virus, the virus which causes cold sores on the face and around the lips. I had got tested for herpes 1 and 2 , and i have neither. But what i have heard about is that, Herpes is very
common and widespread, it seems 8 out of 9 americans have herpes simplex, is that true?isnt this estimate a bit too much.

  If it is soo widespread i wish to know what should be done to avoid it, I heard kissing gives herpes simplex, i was
socially active most of my years, till recently i have got this huge fear of catching herpes simplex by shaking someones hand, or sharing a drink or getting a peck on the cheek . My close freinds bachelor party is coming up
in the next few weeks, he plans to give it in a strip joint, what scares me is that if i take a lap dance with some dancer
and accidently if she gives me a peck on my cheek i will end up getting this dreaded disease, since herpes is everywhere.

Doctor does it mean that if you goto a strip club and dance with some girl you end up with herpes, even if you dont
indulge in any lip locking?Please advice doctor, what should i do to avoid this disease.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

It's very hard to catch herpes without having direct physical contact with someone who has an active cold sore.  You can see active cold sores.  To catch genital herpes, you'd need to have sex with someone.  I think your estimate of the number of people with herpes is way too high, and your sudden fear of catching it is way over the top.  My advice is to avoid kssing someone who has a cold sore, and to avoid unprotected sex.  

Best.

Dr. Rockoff