Question:
I have an outbreak on the nerve on my neck. It doesn't seem to be bad, no big blisters but the nerve is red and there is a red spot where the initial outbreak was. The spots that were small blisters that never seem to really come, seem also to be peeling. It seems like it is 4 fifths through the healing but is hard to say on day 10 with a pink to red line. Is it true that because I have been diagnosed with herpes1 and even though it is not on my mouth, that my saliva can spread it?? meaning no kissing during an outbreak? Starting a new relationship at a very tender moment of intimacy and am scared to death.
Next question: should I cover it with a gauze bandage when we are close? or is even being in contact stupid. This is the worst moment of my life I have to say.. been looking forward to this closeness for a long time since we have been separated and are finally meeting each other. Please help this nubie out, very desparate. (It is about 1 inch long in a line on the nerve.)

Answer:
dear scared,

saliva can only transmit the virus if touches the area that you have a sore first or touches the area that is shedding first. the virus itself is not produced in saliva.

good luck with your new relationship. how exciting!