HSV-1 Infection Causes
HSV-1 infection occurs when HSV-1 is transmitted from an infected person to a susceptible person through contact with virus present in sores, saliva, or skin surfaces in or around the mouth. [1] HSV-1 infection can also be acquired when exposure occurs from oral or skin surfaces that appear normal. [1] HSV-1 infection is caused by infection with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). [2]
HSV-1 Transmission via Contact with Oral Lesions and Saliva
HSV-1 is mainly transmitted through contact with the virus in sores or saliva. [1] HSV-1 spreads primarily through skin-to-skin contact. [1]
HSV-1 Transmission via Kissing and Other Oral Contact
HSV-1 transmission is associated with oral contact because HSV-1 mostly spreads by oral contact. [1] Oral contact can transmit HSV-1 even when symptoms are not present. [1]
HSV-1 Transmission to the Genital Area
HSV-1 can be transmitted to the genital area through oral-genital contact to cause genital herpes. [1]
HSV-1 Transmission from Asymptomatic Skin or Mucosal Surfaces
HSV-1 can be transmitted from oral or skin surfaces that appear normal. [1] HSV-1 transmission risk is greatest when active sores are present. [1]
HSV-1 Transmission from Mother to Child
In rare circumstances, HSV-1 (and HSV-2) can be transmitted from mother to child during delivery, causing neonatal herpes. [1]
Portals of Entry for HSV-1
HSV-1 infection is associated with viral entry through skin or mucous membrane surfaces near the site of exposure. [2]