Transmission to family members

[When90]

Can you spread genital herpes by sharing a bathroom with family members?  My child takes baths in the shower/tub that I also use. I shower in the a.m. And he bathes at night, but the tub stays wet cuz we live in a hot climate without ac.  I also use the same washing machine as the rest of the family, so maybe the virus spread that way too.  I have only had one outbreak since he was born,but I worry about spreading the virus without symptoms.  I've heard it is highly contagious that way.   He's still in diapers.  Also, if a toddler Is fussy and feeds poorly for no other obvious reason (not teething or anything), could this be a sign of genital herpes? He also scratches his butt a lot and is always touching his penis, but there are no visible rashes or anything.  I am afraid he caught it from me cuz once when I took Valtrex and breastfed him, he seemed to feel better and ate better.  Help!

[gracefromHHP]

you absolutely will not transmit genital herpes to your child!!! This is not a realistic concern at all.

[When90]

Thanks so much for your answers.  I just can't help but worry about transmitting it to my child.  What would the symptoms look like in a young child?  Is it possible to have an outbreak with no sores on the outside?  Again, I am just so paranoid, something I've noticed many other parents on here express.

[gracefromHHP]

We call it a sexually transmitted infection because it takes that sort of naked and intimate contact to transmit the virus.  in a household, everyone should have their own towel, washcloth, toothbrush, razor and body puff - not because of herpes transmission risk but because other very common germs are very easily transmitted through sharing them. The virus is easily killed with soap and water so as long a towel is clean, not a problem.

the bathtub and washing machine are absolutely not an issue and neither are toilets.

grace