The herpes simplex virus is an infection that can appear in various parts of your body. There are two types of herpes, which are herpes simplex virus type 1 and herpes simplex type 2. The difference between the two are herpes type 1 is known as oral herpes and herpes type 2 causes genital breakouts. The herpes simplex virus is contagious and it can be passed from person to person through direct contact with the virus.
Herpes simplex virus type 1 can spread through mucosal surfaces or skin sites. For examples, eating from the same utensils, sharing lip balm, kissing, and receiving oral sex from someone who has a cold sore. Herpes simplex virus type 2 can spread by sexual contact with someone who already has the herpes simplex