I have coldsores around my mouth, huge headaches, and swollen lymphnodes. It was diagnosed as Herpes. Iwas told by my general practitioner that this is the same as genital herpes, and I can spread it "there". However I talked to my aunt who is a doc, and has had herpes around the mouth for 20 years and she says that they are two completly seperate viruses. So whos right?

Actually they both are correct.

Herpes type 1 - generally oral
Then there's herpes type 2 - generally genital

It is possible to have type 2 orally and type 1 in the genital area.

During an outbreak you want to be sure to wash your bath towels and wash cloths after each use. Ways to prevent spreading don't touch the area and wash you hands often esp. if you touch the sore. Both types of the virus thrive in the moist warm membrane tissue found around the mouth, nostrils, eyes and genital area. It is much harder for the virus to penetrate the skin but if you have a cut or sore you will be giving the virus an open door.

I have had oral for well over 20 years and have yet to give it to anyone else so don't stress over it. Just be sure that if you get the little tingle of one starting that you don't kiss or share a cup or straw with others. Remember that the sore can spread it easily to someone else so avoid contact with it.

I hope this helps. Good luck.