The other commonly transmitted strain of the herpes simplex virus, HSV1, typically results in oral herpes, or cold sores around the mouth. This form of HSV is more readily transmitted via oral contact, such as kissing, than through genital contact. HSV1 can be transmitted through both giving and receiving oral sex. read more
HSV-2 can affect any area of the skin or mucous membranes. If the person is contagious and is ‘shedding’ the virus it can be transmitted in saliva, therefore kissing is a means of viral transmission. read more