Cold Sores
What is a cold sore?
A cold sore is a small blister or group of blisters that usually develop on the lip or around the mouth. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
Cold sores are also known as fever blisters or herpes simplex labialis
If you get cold sores, you’re not alone. More than half of ages 14 to 49 carry the virus that causes cold sores. The virus stays in the body after the cold sores clear. If the virus reactivates, or wakes up, you may get cold sores again.
Cold sores are generally not serious. In healthy people, cold sores tend to clear within two weeks.
If you have a cold sore, you can spread the virus to others who don’t have the virus. Even when you treat cold sores, you can still spread the virus to others. You are contagious until all the sores have scabbed over.
By taking the following precautions until all of the sores have scabs, you can avoid infecting others:
- Don’t kiss people, especially children
- Avoid other intimate contact
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has a weakened immune system, including newborn babies
- Don’t share personal items like lip balm, towels, or razors
- Don’t share beverages or food
- Try not to touch your cold sores
- If you touch a cold sore or apply medicine to it, wash your hands immediately afterward
- Wash your hands frequently throughout the day
These precautions are especially important if you are around a child who has eczema or someone who has a weakened immune system. If that person catches the virus, it can be very serious.
