Hi Doc: Your advise it is always appreciated, I just met a wonderful guy, and in the process of learning more about each other, he was honest to confess to be a Herpes 2 carrier. I really like the guy but I have my doubts about being intimate with him or even develop a longer relationship? I am kind of scared to get infected.

What are the best methods to prevent getting infected as Safe Sex? Thank you for your help. -JP (At Right: The drawing is amusing, but a real photo of herpes is not pretty.)

Hi JP: Your friend is not alone. Almost a quarter of the population has infection with herpes. Type one is usually associated with cold sores and type 2 is usually considered the cause of genital lesions. In fact orogenital sex can transfer the virus and either virus can cause either lesions.

It is very difficult since even kissing can transfer virus and during times when there is not evident infection transmission can occur. The antiviral drugs like acyclovir or valcyclovir can shorten the time of active lesions and reduce outbreaks with chronic suppressive doses. the manufacturers caution that the drugs do not totally prevent viral shedding.

The active lesions are clear-fluid-filled painful blister lesions and general malaise may be present at the time of outbreak. Some people can anticipate an outbreak by achiness before developing lesions. However there can be painless outbreaks.

The only absolute way to prevent transmission is to prevent contact with shedding of virus from lesions. Virus can be also be passed through mucous membranes, as in mouth, anus and genitalia even when no lesions are evident. There's the rub.

Condoms are able to be an effective barrier method. Genital Herpes is not a life threatening condition but the virus remains dormant in the nervous system, to cause outbreaks at times of stress, both emotional and physical, or even without a cause. It is not fair! Good Luck, Ellar, M.D.