Herpes from a handshake?
Posted August 9th, 2005 by mzonica
Can I get herpes from a handshake? Three days ago I realised a bit too late that some guy stretching out his hand in greeting had blisters all over his arms and hands. I immediately rushed home (about 15 to 20 minutes away) and thoroughly washed my hands with antiseptic disinfectant and soap. I didn't touch any other part of the body before this. Now I have some red bumps on my thighs... Could it be herpes?
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Herpes transmission
Hi mzonica,
No, you don't get Genital Herpes from a handshake - then we would all have it ;) And Genital Herpes is not usually seen on arms or hands, but on the genitals. I would have thought that the guy you shook hands with has some sort of skin condition like psoriasis. Besides, I don't hink he would have even touched you if whatever he has was infectuos.
Antiseptic, disinfectant or soap will not save you from Genital Herpes. But you do have to have intimate contact (ie sex) to get Genital Herpes. I have no idea what the bumps on you thighs are, I suggest you see a doctor if it gets worse.
Also, read our Genital Herpes FAQ. It sees that you need to educate yourself a little if you ever want to shake hands with anyone again ;)
Don't panic, you probably fine.
Kind regards,
iv
Hello
So true!!!