Oral herpes, also known as herpes labialis, is a highly contagious infection inside or around the mouth caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1. The virus is transmitted through physical contact with an infected area. This transmission occurs most commonly when skin outbreaks, blisters or lesions are present.

Sexually Transmitted

The U.S. National Library of Medicine identifies oral-to-genital contact as spreading oral herpes to the genitals (and vice versa). The virus is transmitted this way through saliva and genital secretions.

Childbirth

Herpes simplex virus may occur between mother and child during childbirth, when the infant passes through the birth canal. If there are no exposed blisters during delivery, the risk of transmission is lowered, according to the Department of Pediatrics at The University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Skin-to-Skin Contact

Unfortunately, according to U.S. National Library of Medicine, most people in the United States are infected with the type 1 virus by the age of 20. This is due to the fact that skin-to-skin contact, without the presence of skin lesions or blisters, can transmit the virus from one person to another.

Sharing Common Items

Razors, towels, dirty dishes, beverage glasses, etc., are all items that can transmit the oral herpes virus when shared with another person.

Prevention

Emedicinehealth.com recommends avoiding touching saliva, skin or mucous membranes that have sores.

Source:

ScienceDirect.com: "Herpes Simplex Virus Infections of the Newborn;" David W. Kimberlin MD; 2007

U.S. National Library of Medicine: "Herpes labialis"

Emedicinehealth.com: "Oral Herpes"

Resource:

Physician's Desktop Reference: "Oral Herpes Simplex Virus Infections"