Get Virtual Care
For Businesses
About Us
A member asked:
Can you get herpes from holding hands with someone who has a cold sore if you have a damaged cuticle?
5 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Not likely: Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of herpes simplex virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2. Both virus types can cause sores around the mouth (herpes labialis) and on the genitals (genital herpes). The target cells for these viruses are confined to those areas, not your hands. The usual transmission is through kissing and sharing utensils.
Answered 2/3/2017
3k views
Unlikely possibility: Herpes is a virus theoretically possible to transmit but practical aspect no. Casual hand contact is not the usual way , also hand washing important in control of several types of infections , so always wash hands if you touch anything
Answered 3/7/2016
3k views
Related Questions
A member asked:
Lets say you touch somebodys herpes sore with just your hand and then you wash it off, does that remove the herpes virus from your hands?
A doctor has provided 1 answer
A member asked:
If you touch somebody elses herpes sore with just your hand and then you wash your hands with soap and water, does it kill the herpes virus?
A doctor has provided 1 answer
A member asked:
I have had this for a month now is it herpes or hiv? Bumbs started on hand, and moved to legs and arms. Sore throat here and there
A doctor has provided 1 answer
A member asked:
Can i get herpes from a handshake if i have cracked hands and someone was picking at their cold sore?
A doctor has provided 1 answer
People also searched for:
I have had a cold sore for about 4 to 5 days. It's dried out, but i masturbated and used saliva. I did wash my hands before hand. Can I get genital herpes?
Someone touches cold sore, then shakes my hand. I have a tiny wound. Risk of contracting herpetic whitlow/herpes on finger?
When I take a shower, I touched an cold sore with scab cover caused by HSV in lower leg (which is also strange for me. I dont know how I caught it in the lower legs), and then use the hand to clean my penis and glans. Will I got genital herpes?
Can herpetic whitlow be contracted via indirect contact such as someone touching a cold sore and then shaking your hand (which has a tiny wound)?
How long does the herpes virus stay on your hand after touching a sore? Can u infect someone else by touching them with your hand before washing?
Didn't find what you're looking for?
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more.
Ask your questionMore of what we treat
Download HealthTap
Video visit and message your doctor
