If someone has herpes but no sores, can it still be passed on to another person? – Spence* 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). The herpes virus can live outside of the area that a condom covers, though, so a condom may not always prevent the spread. avoiding sex during outbreaks (herpes is much more likely to spread during outbreaks) making sure the infected person takes antiviral medicine every day as prescribed by the health care provider The only way to completely prevent herpes and other STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) is to not have sex (oral, vaginal, or anal). *Names have been changed to protect user privacy. Back to Articles Related Articles STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) You've probably heard lots of discouraging news about sexually transmitted diseases. The good news is that STDs can be prevented. Find out how to protect yourself. Read More How Can I Find Out If My Boyfriend Has an STD Before We Have Sex? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More How Do Doctors Test for STDs? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More I Have Bumps On My Penis. Is This Normal? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More What Are the Chances of Having an STD? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Is it Normal to Get Pimples Near the Vagina? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Talking to Your Partner About STDs You know you should talk about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) before the action starts. But what if the thought of having "the talk" makes you nervous? These tips can help. Read More Genital Herpes Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). There's no cure for genital herpes, but medicines can help control it. Read More Condoms Condoms may be a good birth control option for couples who are responsible enough to use one each time and people who want protection against STDs. Read More Talking to Your Partner About Condoms Some people - even those who are having sex - are embarrassed by the topic of condoms. Here are some tips for talking about condoms with your partner. Read More Can You Get Genital Herpes From a Cold Sore? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Telling Your Partner You Have an STD People who have STDs might feel apprehensive about discussing their disease with a partner. Here are some tips on talking to a partner when you have an STD. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.