How is genital herpes generally spread?

Direct Contact: Genital herpes is essentially spread by direct contact with an infectious area. It is so common primarily due to its ability to infect another even in the absence of any sores. So, that means that genital herpes can be spread even if you or your partner don't see any sores - orally or genitally. Valtrex (valacyclovir) has been shown to reduce, not eliminate the risk for asymptomatic transmission.