Fast Facts

* Herpes generally appears as small blisters or sores on the face, mouth or genitals.

* Herpes transmission occurs when direct skin-to-skin contact is made with the virus.

* Prodrome (tingling or itching at the site of outbreak), usually signifies the beginning of a herpes episode.

* Typically active virus is on the skin only during certain periods (a few days out of the year) when active virus might be on the skin—even when symptoms are not visible.

* Use of latex condoms during every sexual encounter can decrease chances of contraction when the virus is present on the skin.

* Often herpes is transmitted by a person who is unaware of their infection.

* When a person is diagnosed with herpes, they can better protect partners from infection by avoiding contact during prodrome or herpes episode and practicing safe sex even in the absence of visible symptoms.