Test your knowledge of genital herpes. Of the following statements, which are facts and which are myths?
1. You can spread genital herpes when you don't have any symptoms.
Fact. Genital herpes can be spread to a sex partner even when you have no symptoms. This is how most new cases of genital herpes are spread.
2. A person can have genital herpes and not even know it.
Fact. The genital herpes virus can be active in a person's body even though they have no symptoms. That's why out of the 50 million Americans who have genital herpes, 90% don't even realize they are infected with the virus and may unknowingly infect others.
3. You can get genital herpes from toilet seats.
Myth. The genital herpes virus is a fragile virus that dries out when it is exposed to air. There have been no proven cases of genital herpes transmission from a toilet seat.
4. If you have genital herpes, you can never have sex again.
Myth. While you should always use a condom for extra protection, you can still have sex if you have genital herpes. But it is important to avoid sexual contact if you have any sores (oral or genital) or symptoms. Also, even if sores are not present, you could still be contagious because of asymptomatic viral shedding. Even when you are asymptomatic, you should use a condom for extra protection. (Please see your doctor for alternative barrier methods if you're allergic to latex.) Even though condoms have been shown to reduce transmission, they are not always effective.
Source: http://www.famvir.com/info/genital-herpes-facts.jsp
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