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Hsv1 transmission
I have hsv1 that appears 6 times a year on my bottom lip. I am curious how easy it is to transmit it to my toddler son. I never kiss him when I have it but once in a while a stray hand of his may hit it. I try to wash his hand. Immediately, but I am not sure how easy it would be in this scenario for him to get it. Is transmission possible with that little of contact or does it need to be more sustained touch.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Welcome to our Forum. There are no specific studies of how commonly transmission of HSV-1 through casual contact is. The rates are low. Equally importantly however, I feel I need to point out that there is a certain (unknowable) risk that your son may acquire HSV from you (or someone else) through casual contact. I hope that possibility however will not keep you from regular contact with him (i.e. kissing, hugging). HSV-1 is just not that big a problem (over 60% of adults have it) and to not be close to your son would be a large price to pay.
I hope this comment will help. EWH
I hope this comment will help. EWH
I should also add that my toddler has eczema, which I know can make hsv1 worse.
You are reading content posted in the STDs Forum
Herpes spreads by oral, vaginal and anal sex.
Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.
STIs are the most common cause of genital sores.
Millions of people are diagnosed with STDs in the U.S. each year.
STDs can't be transmitted by casual contact, like hugging or touching.
Syphilis is an STD that is transmitted by oral, genital and anal sex.
