How long is herpes contagious?

The average incubation period for an initial herpes infection is 4 days (range, 2 to 12) after exposure. 10 The vesicles break and leave painful ulcers that may take two to four weeks to heal after the initial herpes infection. read more

A answered. The herpes virus is most contagious during and just before a person has an outbreak. Herpes outbreaks often appear as a rash, bumps, or one or more sores around the genitals or the mouth, which can progress to blisters. Initial outbreaks are sometimes associated with fevers and flu-like symptoms. read more