You might want to add that oral herpes can also be spread by sharing eating/drinking utensils and anything else that comes into contact with the sufferer's mouth, including towels, facewashers, sponges and toothbrushes.. As a long-term oral herpes sufferer, it was determined (by my doctor) that I caught mine from my grandfather, who NEVER ONCE kissed me on the mouth or anywhere near my mouth. Sure the risk is lower than direct contact, but it CAN and DOES happen.