Yes. Even when no sores are present, the herpes virus is still active in the body and can spread to others. If you or your partner has herpes, reduce the risk of spread by: using a condom every time you have sex (vaginal, oral, or anal).

Can you give someone HSV-1 without a cold sore?

Someone with HSV-1 can spread the virus through oral sex, even if they dont have sores at the time. The only way to prevent genital herpes and other STDs is abstinence.

Does HSV 1 show up on STD tests?

If you didnt know before now, herpes is generally not included in a standard STD panel. That means all those screens that you so diligently obtained since becoming sexually active and the one you may have asked your partner to get as well, probably did not include herpes.

Is HSV 1 a big deal?

Millions of people have herpes, and plenty of them are in relationships. For most couples, herpes isnt a huge deal. Try to go into the conversation with a calm, positive attitude. Having herpes is simply a health issue — it doesnt say anything about you as a person.