Gladiatorum herpes

[Soccerperson]

Hi there,
I live with a relative who has gladiatorum herpes. Due to an intensely stressful external situation, they break out often. They do not disclose when it happens and (due to facial hair), I am often unaware of when it occurs. They touch their face fairly regularly, and I do find myself concerned about surfaces they touch afterwards. I have read questions (& answers) on your forum that surfaces like doorknobs, cabinets, refrigerator handles, etc. do not have enough of the virus to be transferred.
My question is ~ is it possible-if you are repeatedly touching the same surfaces all day that they just touched (after they touch their face), is it possible that even though one surface does not have enough virus, that there can be a build-up of enough virus that can be transferred, after touching multiple surfaces? I ask because when the relative got the virus (many years ago) from wrestling, the whole team got it as well. Since gladiatorum herpes can be referred to as “mat herpes,” and the whole team got it, is it possible they got it from the mat and not just from skin to skin contact when wrestling each other? Thanks so much!
PS I do know you have mentioned that you do not have a lot of experience dealing with gladiatorum herpes, so if you happen to know anyone that does, I’m happy to take the recommendation. When I try to google my questions, I find inconsistent answers.
Thanks again!

[Terri Warren]

Herpes gladitorium can be transferred either from a mat or directly from someone who has a cold sore and comes into direct contact with a wrestling partner. It is not common as you may know.

Are you saying that the person gets cold sores on their lip? Is that the concerning area?

I have zero concern about this person touching their face, assuming that is where the outbreaks are occurring, and then touching surfaces in your home as a method of transmission.

Terri

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