Herpes is a common condition that spreads primarily through skin-to-skin contact, such as kissing or close physical contact. To reduce the risk, it’s important to practice safe habits, avoid sharing personal items, and refrain from contact with visible sores. Regular health check-ups and open communication with partners also help minimize the risk. The herpes simplex virus stays in nerve cells and can switch between inactive and active states. Certain factors can trigger the virus, including illness, fever, sun exposure, menstruation, injury, emotional stress, or surgery. For those whose symptoms are triggered by sunlight, avoiding sun exposure and using sunscreen can help prevent flare-ups. To ease symptoms, individuals can drink cold beverages, enjoy popsicles, or use over-the-counter pain relievers. For discomfort in specific areas, sitting in a warm bath (without soap), wearing loose-fitting clothes, and using over-the-counter remedies can also provide relief.