There are two types of herpes: genital and oral. Both are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Genital herpes is spread through sexual activity, and oral herpes can be spread through saliva. Young children are particularly vulnerable to being infected with oral herpes. There is no cure for herpes, but symptoms can be controlled.
Fever Blisters
Fever blisters are a common symptom in genital herpes. They appear in and outside the mouth area, and can be transmitted to other people through kissing.
Sexual Activity
Genital herpes can be transmitted through sexual intercourse and oral sex, although any skin contact can spread it.
No Symptoms
A person who has no symptoms and is unaware that he has the virus can still pass it to another person.
Cocaine
University studies have linked cocaine snorting to high instances of contracting genital and oral herpes through sharing straws that are used to ingest the drug (see Resources).
Oral Herpes
The oral virus is passed by saliva, touching skin or mucous membranes, and is highly contagious.