Hi,

Hope someone can help with these questions I have...

I've had this 'thing' (the 2nd variety) for about 3 years now, and take what I believe to be as many precautions as possible, so that I don't accidentally infect my long term girlfriend. These range from thoroughly washing hands after going anywhere near by downstairs region (during an outbreak or not) to always wearing condoms, through to asking my g/f to wash her hands if she happens to touch the zipper region of my trousers/shorts.

Maybe the last one sounds like i'm being paranoid - by I don;t know whether I am or not! My hands are so harsh from all the hand-washing! For instance, even if i'm outbreak free, I wash my hands after taking my trousers off at the end of the day, as its' my belief that my hand would have touched my penis during the day, and my hand would then have used the zipper on my trousers. So I then have to wash my hands to ensure that there's not risk in transmitting. Is this right? Can this disease be passed (whether during an outbreak or not) through inanimate objects?

Having looked thru a few messages on these boards, there's a lot of talk about shedding. Is it possible to shed from other areas of the body, even if (and I have) only ever had an outbreak on my penis? I'm showing advance symptoms now - tingling, senstive skin - so I know I'll see something appear shortly downstairs - so does this mean all intimate contact is out? Any help greatfully received!

Hi stilll confused~
Please get yourself blood-tested with the Herpes Select blood test (IGg).
No need to be paranoid ~ we've all been there. Hand washing does not prevent the virus from spreading. ~ but just go get tested. P.O.M. ~ Peace of Mind, whether negative or positive. Think positive thoughts & let us know, ok? If you are involved in sexual contact, just my thoughts, I would stop for now. You can still transmit herpes if you are not having an outbreak. Please see your doctor!!!

Blonder, soap and water does kill the virus when it is on the skin. This information is on one of the major herpes information websites. That is why it is recommended that your partner wash with soap and water immediately following intercourse . . . as in ASAP! My DH will also use alcohol or peroxide .. . no proof it works but it can't hurt . . OUCH!!

On my hands, after washing them, I will use that gel antibacterial soap that comes in a pump and doesn't need water. I really don't know if it is necessary but I figure it can't hurt. I also carry it around in my purse and will always give a quick wash with it before coming in contact with someone such as a child. I also am beyond paranoid about public washrooms; worried that the person before me might have some STD that is still living it's short life on the door knob or the latch to the toilet stall. I wrap my hand in toilet paper to flush and keep it wrapped when I open the latch. I wash, use the gel soap and grab a handtowel to open the door to the restroom. I know herpes cannot live very long on an inanimate object but it's the term "very long" that causes me to worry so I stay about from public restrooms unless nature calls and won't wait until I get home.

Hi stilll confused~
Please get yourself blood-tested with the Herpes Select blood test (IGg).
No need to be paranoid ~ we've all been there. Hand washing does not prevent the virus from spreading. ~ but just go get tested. P.O.M. ~ Peace of Mind, whether negative or positive. Think positive thoughts & let us know, ok? If you are involved in sexual contact, just my thoughts, I would stop for now. You can still transmit herpes if you are not having an outbreak. Please see your doctor!!!