Cold sores are small lesions that appear on the face, particularly around the mouth and lips. They are typically caused by the Herpes simplex virus Type 1. Other symptoms of Herpes, including genital lesions, are usually the result of Herpes Type 2. It has been stated that approximately 80% of the United States population has been exposed to at least one type of the Herpes virus, which would be why cold sores are such a common occurrence. There is a general stigma associated with cold sores and fever blisters since it comes from a form of herpes. They are so common though that this is really unfounded. They are highly contagious sores when present, and you can easily receive the virus from someone when they are currently battling a cold sore.
Receiving the virus from skin to skin contact usually does not cause cold sores immediately. There is an “incubation” period that can last up to two weeks. However, in most cases, the Herpes simplex virus will eventually create at least one cold sore in the person carrying the virus. Many people experience their first cold sore at age seven or perhaps even earlier, so they may not know where they contracted the virus. Once the virus has been contracted, it is always with the infected person, and cold sores become apparent when the virus is “active.” This is when it is easily contagious.
There are many reasons that a cold sore can form. Most appearances are due to the improper function of the immune system, such as when you have an illness or extremely tired or stressed. Another common time when cold sores pop up is when someone that is infected with the virus gets a sunburn on their lips and face. The irritation from the sun can lead to fever blisters. Other causes include pregnancy, skin irritations, your diet, certain medications, menstruation, or consuming a large amount of alcohol. If your immune system isn’t working properly to fight the virus, it is likely that one or more cold sores will emerge.
Cold sores are contagious at every stage of their formation, though they are the most contagious when the lesion has broken the skin and fluid begins to escape the sore. This liquid contains millions of virus particles, so anyone who hasn’t contracted the virus comes into contact with this fluid by kissing or touching the infected person’s face is very likely to get the Herpes simplex virus. If you happen to come into contact with a cold sore, immediately washing the area that was touched with warm water and soap can drastically reduce the possibility of contracting the virus.
As you can see, cold sores are highly contagious lesions that are formed due to the Herpes simplex virus. With so many people in the U.S. alone being infected, it may seem difficult to not catch the virus at some point in your life. Be careful coming into contact with someone currently battling a cold sore to decrease your chances of contracting the virus. Since cold sores are most contagious after they have burst, avoid kissing or touching the face of someone with a lesion during this time.