Are Cold Sores Contagious?
This is a commonly asked question amongst the STD-related questions we receive on a daily basis here at STDguide.org. Throughout this post, we’ll be exploring the topic of herpes cold sores, how contagious they are, how cold sores spread, how to prevent cold sore transmission, the commonality of herpes cold sores, treatment of herpes, and more. Read on to learn more and remember to get tested, right here!
The Short Answer is…Yes, Cold Sores are Contagious
An active herpes cold sore outbreak is quite contagious in most cases. You’ll want to avoid sharing utensils, straws, towels, or anything which will come in contact with your mouth. Additionally, you’ll want to avoid kissing partners while you have herpes cold sore outbreak. You’ll also ant to avoid any type of oral sex, as the saliva and skin-to-skin contact will most likely cause the transmission of the herpes cold sore virus to your sexual partner.
How Long are Cold Sores Contagious?
Cold sores are typically most contagious when they’re active and up to two weeks afterwards in most cases. The risk of spreading herpes cold sores to your partner is still there, even when you don’t have an active cold sore present. The virus itself may lie dormant for many years until it’s activated by a period of high-stress activity. This is one of the many reasons to get tested if you think you may have herpes cold sores. It’s better to know what your status is than to wonder if you have it for multiple years.
How are Cold Sores Spread from One Person to Another?
As mentioned above, cold sores are typically spread from skin-to skin contact or an exchange of saliva with an infected person. You should never share anything with someone who has an active cold sore, as this will possibly spread the virus to you and you may end up having to deal with cold sores for the rest of your life. You’ll also want to avoid exchanging saliva or skin-to-skin contact with the infected person’s mouth even if they have a healed over scab. This scab is still shedding the virus and may end up causing you to contract herpes cold sores as well.
How to Prevent the Transmission of Herpes Cold Sores
Avoidance is the best method for contracting herpes cold sores to begin with. Avoid kissing, sharing things, and skin-to-skin contact with those experiencing a herpes cold sore outbreak. Avoidance and awareness can go a long way in preventing the spread of herpes cold sores. If you believe you may have recently been exposed to the herpes virus and would like to get tested, schedule an appointment here.
How Common is HSV-1 (Herpes Cold Sores)?
Herpes Simplex Virus 1, or herpes cold sores on the mouth area are extremely common amongst the general population. It’s estimated at least 50-80% of the U.S. population has been exposed to the herpes cold sore virus at one point in time. So if you’ve contracted herpes, you’re not alone. In fact, more people than you’d think may have the herpes cold sore virus lingering in their system. Don’t be ashamed if you’ve contracted herpes. It’s not the end of the world. It happens. The important thing is to get tested often if you’re sexually active and be aware of what herpes looks like and be transparent with any sexual partners you have.
How Do I Know if I Have Herpes Virus?
Visually speaking, you’ll most likely be able to tell if you have the herpes cold sore virus. If you’re unsure, you’ll want to get tested. This test searches for the presence of HSV-1 and is a good way to be knowledgeable about your status.
How is Herpes Treated?
Herpes is treated with a variety of methods. Depending on the severity of your herpes condition, you may be able to treat it successfully with over-the-counter medications such as Abreva or medicated Carmex. If your herpes cold sore condition is moderate to severe, you may want to see a doctor to seek further treatment. They may end up prescribing you the commonly prescribed anti-viral medication by the name of Valtrex.
Get Tested Today to Know for Sure!
If you’re contemplating getting tested for HSV-1, you should. Knowing for sure whether or not you have the virus can put your mind at ease. Click the button below to find testing in your local area and be knowledgeable about your status for your health and your sexual partners.
DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.