Good Morning,

Is it possible? Yes.  Is it likely, not really.  The contact was very very short that you are describing.  The person you touched would have to be first infected with herpes and then be shedding virus in those 15-20 second and have that virus come in direct contact with your finger.  If you acquired herpetic whitlow, I would expect blistering on the finger that is tender.  If that happens, it should happen within 2-10 days from the contact.

Terri
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Thank you for your response, The cut was no longer bleeding but was still fresh.  The act was stroking a penis for 15-20 seconds. The individual was a CSW. There were no visible signs of herpes but I know that doesn't mean much.  Should I be concerned?  Also, should I cover my thumb for the time being?  Thanks.

No, I don't believe that you should be concerned.  Even if this person had whitlow, fingers do not shed virus when no sores are present - the skin is too thick.  I am not concerned about you.

Terri
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I was the one doing the rubbing/stroking. Sorry for the confusion.

Oh, I'm sorry for the confusion.  So the CSW was a male and you stroked his penis, right?  I still do not think there is risk here.  Just keep an eye on your fingers until 10 days have passed and if nothing shows up, take it off your worry list.

Terri
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