Any direct contact with skin lesions of an affected individual or having sexual intercourse with someone who is infected. The virus is transmitted straight from the site of infection to the site of contact.

Herpes direct contact includes:

• Touching or caressing actively infected areas
• Kissing
• Sexual contact (vaginal, anal, and oral)

Areas that are easily infected are as follows:

• Moist areas of the mouth
• Throat
• Anus
• Vulva
• Vagina
• Eyes

Skin can be infected if it is cut, chafed, burned, or has a rash or other sores
Herpes can be passed from one partner to another or from one part of your own body to another part of the body.

Emphasise personal hygiene to minimise the transfer of infectious material. Wear gloves when in direct contact with infectious lesions and wash hands with soap and water afterwards.

Use of condoms during sexual intercourse decreases the risk of infection.