Herpes simplex virus 1 and
2 (
HSV-1 and
HSV-2), also known as
human herpesvirus 1 and
2 (
HHV-1 and
HHV-2), are two members of the herpesvirus family,
Herpesviridae, that infect
humans. Both HSV-1 (which produces most
cold sores) and HSV-2 (which produces most genital herpes) are and
contagious. They can be spread when an infected person is producing and
shedding the
virus. Herpes simplex can be spread through contact with saliva, such as sharing drinks.