A school administrator and massage therapist wants guidance on how to respond to a student who is reluctant to work with clinic clients who report a history of herpes. Is this a significant risk for massage therapists?
The reality is that anyone with a history of herpes simplex can shed the virus intermittently, even without visible symptoms. However, the risk to massage therapists who follow proper hygiene and self-care protocols is extremely low. In that sense, herpes falls into the same category as other infections that may be transmitted through direct contact but are effectively managed with consistent hygienic practices. The key issue is not the client’s infection status; it is the therapist’s adherence to appropriate hygiene protocols.
Full show notes and resources available at https://www.abmp.com/podcasts/ep-553-herpes-simplex-2026-i-have-client-who-pathology-conversations-ruth-werner