Herpes facts - CBS 12 Action News

"Herpes is a disease caused by the herpes simplex virus, or HSV (H-S-V). The virus is usually transmitted by direct contact with an infected individual, including kissing, oral sex, and sexual intercourse, or other situations in which viruses from the infection site contact broken skin or a mucous membrane like the mouth. HSV-type 1 most often results in 'fever blisters' or 'cold sores' around the mouth. HSV-type 2 typically causes lesions in the genital area. However, either virus can be spread to the opposite location."