Herpes Zoster/HSV1 & 2

[VanWyk]

I am 62 and have had shingles on my upper left arm off and on for the past 17 years. Post herpatic pain on the left side. In January I was diagnosed with HSV1 at .20 and HSV2 IgG as positive.>5.0. What does this mean? Is there a relationship between these herpes virus? I do not get cold sores, but I do get canker sores. Does having shingles predispose me to these other forms of the virus? Can I give any of these virus to another person through kissing, touching or sexual intercourse?

[gracefromHHP]

The herpes handbook at www.westoverheights.com is free and has the info you need as far as genital herpes.

Definitely it's likely that something that isn't zoster is going on in your arm area area all these years.  What I have no idea but suppressive therapy isn't going to help if it's not a herpes infection causing your rash there.  

grace

[VanWyk]

Yes, years ago. There were several cultures which were inconclusive. The outbreaks were treated with acyclovir for ten days at a time. over the last 10 years I have been taking a daily does of 800mg. Recent antibody tests show I am positive for HSV2 .5.0.
I need reliable information regarding the HSV2 manner of infection during sexual play and sexual intercourse.
What precautions, etc.

[gracefromHHP]

Typically shingles never reoccurs. Have you had your "shingles" cultured as such or has it all been visual diagnosis only?

grace