To reduce the risk of genital herpes, use a condom -- every time | Booster Shots | Los Angeles Times

"We've assumed that condoms can reduce the spread of genital herpes -- but without complete, or at least well-quantified, confidence in the assumption.

This fact sheet from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sums up the reason for such hesitation: 'Genital ulcer diseases can occur in both male and female genital areas that are covered or protected by a latex condom, as well as in areas that are not covered.'"