Herpes

How long can the herpes virus survive on a object?

How long can the herpes virus survive on a object? If someone I know infected with herpes and had a active cold sore drank from a glass of water and say a hour later I drank from it would it be possible for me to contract the virus? what about on a whistle that was used by someone with the virus (with active sores), then someone else uses it when it is dry a hour later?

Public Comments

1. The virus does not survive long time in air in dry areas such as a table. But it may survive tad longer in wet surfaces but as soon as lets say water starts to cool down and dries, the virus will die. About the cup, i am not sure but don't share that cup at least until the cold sore is gone for a week or two.
2. In the case you've presented, yes, it would be possible. How long the virus can survive depends on the conditions. The glass would have to be cleaned a dried to be safely non-infectious. Herpes virus spreads via saliva and water, among other ways. Most children who are infected got it at a very young age from their mother, likely by the mom "testing" a bottle or cup before giving it to the infant.