[Question #1135] Herpes transmission

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98 months ago
Hi,
Today I was getting my nails done and the lady rubbed an open cold sore on her lip with her hand before touching my hands. I'm freaking out! Do you think I will get herpes on my hands? My skin is dry and a bit cracked and I already have HSV1. How long should I worry? Other than washing my hands what else can I do?
Thank you!
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
97 months ago
I don't think you will get herpes on your hand, no, but this is a little yucky.  You already have HSV 1 so the chances that you would get it in a new location are very remote indeed.  Once you have established infection in one location of your body, it is very unlikely that you will get it in a new place.  Please let me know if you have other questions. 

Terri
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