I think I may have had herpes hv1 since I was 6, maybe earlier, with outbreaks on the corner of my mouth on occassion.  Between 13 and mid 20's no outbreaks.  Then an outbreak maybe once (or twice) a year, sometimes a few years in a row without outbreaks.  I always thought it just a "cold sore" as I grew up calling the outbreaks. 

Recently, I have come aware that what I have is very likely herpes hv1.  I have never been very sexually active, and now I have met a wonderful man, with whom I would like to be with.  I am very upset to read that I can't even kiss him without putting him at risk.

Most of the information is about limiting the spread of infection sexually with condoms, abstinence during outbreaks and so on.  I understand how to limit the potential of infecting him that way, but kissing is such a normal, everyday, spontaneous thing...how can I help prevent (or minimize the potential of) my friend from getting it from kissing?  I am really heartbroken over this.

We haven't even kissed yet, but it's going to come up very soon, please help....

Thank you for your help and for answering this question....