Myth 2: If you sleep with someone who has the virus, youll get it too. Many people believe that if you have sex with someone with herpes, then you will definitely get herpes too - but this just isnt the case.

How long after exposure does herpes appear?

The average incubation period for an initial herpes infection is 4 days (range, 2 to 12) after exposure. The vesicles break and leave painful ulcers that may take two to four weeks to heal after the initial herpes infection. Experiencing these symptoms is referred to as having a first herpes “outbreak” or episode.