Many people with herpes can recognize physical signals heralding an outbreak. This helps them prepare for the occurrence. During an outbreak personal hygiene is very important. HSV-II is so infectious that touching an open herpes sore, then touching another part of the body, can spread the virus. It is important to avoid scratching the blisters.
Scratching can spread the infection as well and leave the blistered area open to other infections.
Personal items, such as towels, washcloths, and clothing, should not be shared during this period. The best approach to HSV-II is avoidance. Do not have sex with anyone who has sores on his or her genitals. This is fairly easy to observe with men, but with women the sores may be deep in the vagina and not visible. Using a condom can help, but this is not foolproof since the herpes blisters may occur beyond the areas protected by a condom.