How did i get herpes?

From someone else: You get herpes from someone else who has it. Hsv-2 is usually transmitted sexually. Hsv-1, the cause of cold sores, is often acquired earlier in life through close personal contact that isn't sexual.

From herpes viruses: A person can get herpes from another person's fresh herpes sores. The other person may have sores on his or her genitals, lips, fingers, etc..., and transmit viruses by touching the uninfected person. Sometimes, infected persons can transmit herpes even when they don't have visible fresh herpes sores, so prevention is not always possible. Most adults have had oral herpes, as it is so common.