Can urinary tract infection antibiotics prevent contracting the herpes virus during exposure

Dear Ask The Doctor: Can being on antibiotics for a urinary tract infection reduce the risk of contracting herpes when exposed to the virus?

Dear Cassie: The antibiotics used for UTI’s treat a broad range of bacteria responsible for urinary tract infections, however it does not prevent any viral infections including herpes, for which anti viral medications would be used. Taking precautionary measures is the best option in order to avoid contracting the herpes infection.