While abstaining from sexual activity is the most effective way to avoid contracting sexually transmitted diseases like HIV, many people may not realise that some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can still be transmitted without intercourse. In fact, certain STIs can spread through sharing contaminated objects, meaning anyone can be at risk even without penetrative sex.
One such infection that can spread without intercourse is oral herpes
Oral herpes is a viral infection that causes sores and blisters around your mouth or genitals.
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In an informative TikTok post by Malaysian doctor @dr.rusydina, she explained how you can easily contract oral herpes even without sex. But first, here’s what you should know about this tricky virus.
There are two types of Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Type 1 (HSV-1) and Type 2 (HSV-2).
Simply put, Type 1 mostly spreads through oral contact and causes infections in or around the mouth, hence its other name, oral herpes. Type 2 is spread through sexual contact and causes infection in your private parts, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
In her video, Dr. Rusydina not only reminded others NOT to share utensils, such as spoons, forks, and straws, but also cosmetic products.
Never apply lipstick testers directly on your lips
Dr. Rusydina was once guilty of doing so when she was pursuing her studies in Australia, where she was told off by a salesperson for applying a lipstick tester directly onto her lips. The salesperson warned Dr. Rusydina of cold sores, which is one of the symptoms of oral herpes that you can find lingering around your lips.
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And the same goes for sharing cutlery or other eating and drinking utensils.
“If a person is having an active infection, with an ulcer or rash on the lips, it means the virus is active at that time.”
“If the same person eats or drinks with a fork and spoon or straw, the virus can be transmitted onto the food or beverage. If someone else eats or drinks from the same utensils, they can also contract herpes.”
Yes, you can contract oral herpes even without penetrative sex
Once you get herpes, the virus stays with you for life. Fortunately, it is treatable with antiviral medicines such as acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir.
According to the Malaysian AIDS Council, a herpes infection can make way for HIV to enter your body through the sores around your mouth or genitals (even if they’re barely noticeable).
If you have herpes, safe sex is still possible to lower the risk of infection. Talk to your partner for transparency and consult a doctor for medications.
Also read: 16yo Msian Boy Contracts STD After Friends Pressure Him to ‘Try Something New’ in Thailand
