How is genital herpes spead? other than having sex

Any other contact: Cold sores on or near the lips are usually caused by herpes type 1 virus. Most people get them not through sex, so they are not considered an STD. However, they can be transmitted through sexual activity. Genital herpes is usually caused by herpes type 2 and is considered an STD. Through various sexual activities, one can get oral herpes 1 sores on the genitals, and genital herpes 2 on the lips!

No risk, no worry: Genital HSV infections are spread to other persons only by sex. There is no risk through shared bathrooms, toilets, towels, kitches, eating utensils, etc. Nobody in the household of people with genital herpes ever is infected if they don't have sex with each other. (Babies born to moms with genital herpes sometimes are infected when they pass through the birth canal.)