Herpes contraction with no sex?

[GWL]

Just back from a very long night at the hospital. Awaiting test results for my daughter and I am a little confused.

My daughter is 12. She has never so much as kissed a boy. She has had no sexual contact with anyone

Doctor at the walk-in clinic indicated symptoms of Stevens Johnson Syndrome and she does display many of the symptoms. We were referred to the local Children's hospital. The doctors and nurses there dismissed Stevens Johnson Syndrome almost immediatly. A few hours later the doctor indicated his opionion that it was herpes. Swabs and blood work are in process.

My daughter is devastated and embarrassed.

Is it possible to contract herpes via another avenue than sexual exposure, notably for a child this young.

[gracefromHHP]

Where are your daughter's symptoms located? Usually the types of rashes that  steven johnson syndrome is suspected in is not in the genital area.  

You can have herpes infections on other body parts that have absolutely nothing to do with sex. Does your daughter play any sports?

grace

[xxnikkixx666]

I don't believe that is possible.  Outside of a body, the herpes virus is very weak and will die.  That's why it's an STD.

You should talk to your daughter though.  Skin to skin contact of the genital region can cause herpes; the sex does not have to be penetrative.  Also, emphasize to your daughter that she can trust you and tell you if there has been a sexual encouter she's been hiding.

I hope this helps!  Hopefully the results will come back negative and you'll have nothing to worry about!