Prevention of Herpes

Herpes cannot always be prevented, but several steps lower the chance of catching, spreading or triggering it.

Preventing spread of herpes simplex

• Avoid kissing and oral contact when you or your partner has a cold sore or tingling.
• Do not have sex during an outbreak or when you feel the early tingle.
• Use condoms consistently. They reduce, but do not remove, the risk because the virus can be on skin not covered.
• Do not share lip balm, towels, razors, cups or cutlery.
• Wash hands after touching a sore.
• Talk openly with partners. Daily suppressive antivirals can further lower transmission in genital herpes.

Preventing recurrences

• Protect lips from strong sun with sunscreen lip balm.
• Manage stress, sleep and illness.
• Treat early if you feel the first tingle.

Preventing shingles

• The shingles vaccine is available for older adults and some people at risk. Ask your doctor.
• Chickenpox vaccine protects children and lowers the later shingles risk.

Pregnancy and newborns

• Tell your doctor if you or your partner has herpes. Care at delivery may change.
• Anyone with a cold sore should not kiss a newborn.

Key point

Open communication, condoms and early treatment make the biggest difference.

Before your appointment

Note when the first symptoms began, where the sores or rash are, and any fever or pain. List past episodes, triggers, partners who should know, and any pregnancy. Bring your medicines and past reports, including HIV or STI tests. Ask about antiviral options, how to protect others and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.