Although herpes 1 - or oral herpes - is quite common, most people who contract it show no symptoms of it. In fact, only a third of the people who contract it will experience outbreaks, which means there's not as much knowledge about herpes 1 transmission as there should be.

Since as much as 80% of the adult population in North America is infected with herpes 1 orally, the stigma that follows genital herpes (herpes 2) does not similarly hang over oral herpes. This means that those with oral herpes do not have to be so careful to disclose their condition to others (at least between outbreaks).

The most obvious thing to note in regards to herpes 1 transmission is to avoid kissing or engaging in oral sex when an outbreak is occurring. Make sure any cold sores have completely healed before participating in such intimacy.

What if you have already given oral sex just as an outbreak is occurring? Although this is obviously not ideal, it's unlikely to be a major problem. This is due to the fact that both herpes 1 and herpes 2 have a 'preferred site' on the body, and the virus is weakened if transferred away from that site. As the preferred site for herpes 1 is the mouth and lips, it is weakened on the genitals, so unlikely to be a recurring problem for your partner.

The most important thing to note about herpes 1 transmission is the risk when it comes to babies. Since babies have not developed the immune response to handle the infection, it is crucial to avoid kissing a baby when you have a cold sore, or handling it without thoroughly washing your hands.

So, there is very little to worry about. Nobody expects you to live like a monk because of herpes 1, but simply to take some common sense precautions.