HSV-2 on back of hand (herpetic blisters)

Over the weekend (Saturday) I was outdoors for a couple of hours (it was a hot sunny day). That afternoon/evening, I noticed one blister and a cluster of smaller blisters near the bigger one on the back of my hand (below my thumb). I thought it was just a water blister and put some hydrocortisone on it the next day. However, the blisters grew bigger and by Monday I decided to have it checked out. The dermatologist took a culture and I found out today that it is herpetic (HSV2).

I was diagnosed with HSV2 (genitally) last November through a culture and then by a blood test.  Since then, I've had a few recurrences but I was not having a recurrence when the blisters appeared on my hand. How could I have transmitted this to my hand? I was outdoors, clothed, and was not touching my genital area. I am usually pretty good about washing my hands, which I do frequently. Did the hot sun trigger the blisters to appear? (I've heard that can happen with cold sores, but I do not have HSV1). Could I be shedding the virus on other parts of my body (besides the boxer shorts area)? I am worried about touching or shaking other people's hands for fear of transmitting the virus. Can this happen? I have a bandaid over the blisters. Is that enough protection?  Please advise.  Thank you.

[gracefromHHP]

hard to tell how you got the virus there. Usually when you transmit it to other body part, it happens because of a cut in the skin. do you recall any time within the last week or two having a cut on your hand?

no matter what, the culture confirms you have it there now. covering it with a bandage is all you have to do.  I assume you took a round of antivirals too?  also try things like soaking it in epsom salt water or domeboro's solution to help speed healing. also steeping a tea bag and applying it to the rash also helps to speed healing.

grace