There are 2 types of herpes simplex virus (HSV) -- HSV type 1 and 2 [1].
- HSV type 1 is the main cause of cold sores or oral herpes infection, although it can also cause genital ulcers.
- HSV type 2 is the main cause of genital infection, although it can also cause cold sores.
Oral and genital herpes present with blisters and ulcers on the mouth and genital areas respectively. Genital herpes is spread through sexual contact. It is spread through direct skin to skin contact with an affected individual. This cannot be spread through the sharing of drinks and food.
Oral herpes can be spread through kissing and the risk is highest when the contact has active blisters and ulcers. There is a possibility of spreading oral herpes through sharing cups and utensils, though the risk is far lower than direct kissing and skin to skin contact.
References:
1. Singh A, Preiksaitis J, Romanowski B. The Laboratory Diagnosis of Herpes Simplex Virus Infections. Canadian Journal of Infectious Diseases and Medical Microbiology. 2005;16(2):92-98. doi:10.1155/2005/318294
