Can you catch herpes from kissing? My boyfriend got a cold sore
a few months ago and I want to be able to kiss him, but I would
like to not catch herpes.  It’s very responsible to be concerned
about this.  You’re right—both Type 1 and Type 2 herpes can be
spread through kissing if one partner is infected.  While
transmission is most likely when the cold sore is actually
present, it’s also possible when your partner has no symptoms.
That’s because the virus can be active near the surface of the
skin without creating an outbreak.  To reduce the risk of
contracting the virus, avoid contact with the cold sore. When he
has a cold sore, avoid kissing, sharing drinks and lip balm. If
your boyfriend has consistent outbreaks, he may want to consider
talking to his doctor about herpes medications, which can
suppress outbreaks and reduce the risk of transmission.  If you
are sexually active with your boyfriend, protect yourselves
during oral-genital contact! Transmitting Type 1 Herpes (oral
herpes) onto the genitals is