One of the most common and immediate ways in which herpes is transferred from an infected person is by skin-to-skin contact, and accounts for the vast proportion of transfers. This is a very important fact to be aware of, because the myth that the herpes virus can be transmitted through a item used in common, such as toothbrush, toilet seat, etc is exactly that: a myth. The very nature of myths is that they are a small truth, which has then been exaggerated and distorted as a result. Whilst in theory, transmission and subsequent infection could be achieved in this manner; the delicate nature of the virus renders this extremely remote indeed to such an extent that it bears little concern.

If you still have misgivings, then remember: the herpes virus (both the HSV-1 and HSV-2 strains) are passed through the membranes and pores of the skin. Healthy skin and various mucous membranes are often an effective preventative measure of the infection, so even if you do come into direct contact with the virus in whatever way you do so, you already have a 1^st layer of protection.

Care should be taken however when shaving the genital areas, if the razor has previously been used on the genital area of a person infected with the herpes virus, then the chances of infection are also increased.

Somewhat curiously, once the virus (again regardless of the strain) infects a particular area of the body, the body automatically produces antibodies, which are for all intents and purposes the sentries of the body designed to identify and eliminate viruses. Antibodies, once they identify a threat, will neutralise that particular virus on sight, and so this means that an infection in one part of the body will eliminate the chances of another infection occurring.