How Cold Sores Spread

When cold sores on your lip or around your mouth (known as oral herpes virus, HSV-1) are present, use caution during contact with others, especially with people who have weaker immune systems. There are different ways to contract the oral herpes virus, but the most important to avoid is through direct skin-to-skin contact. Other ways the virus can spread to another person are through kissing, sharing utensils, and sharing a toothbrush. Oral herpes can transfer to other parts of the body, including eyes and genitals if proper precautions are not taken during the time of the outbreak. It’s important to wash your hands thoroughly after touching your cold sore.

To help avoid spreading cold sores to other people or to other parts of your body, consider the following precautions:

AVOID KISSING AND CLOSE CONTACT

Avoid kissing and close contact with if you or someone else has an active cold sore outbreak. The oral herpes virus is infectious at any stage, but the most contagious is when blisters are present. The fluid inside contains herpes virus simplex type 1 (HSV-1), which can lead to a cold sore infection. Don’t engage in oral sex when you or your partner have a cold sore because the virus can spread to the genital area, which can be responsible for a genital herpes virus simplex type 2 (HSV-2) outbreak.

AVOID SHARING UTENSILS AND STRAWS

Avoid sharing utensils and straws with someone who has a cold sore. The cold sore virus often lives in saliva and can easily spread through kitchen utensils, drinking glasses, or straws.

AVOID SHARING PERSONAL ITEMS

Avoid sharing toothbrushes and anything else that goes in or around your mouth. This also includes items like lip balm or lipstick, makeup, lotions, razors, and even towels. The virus can survive for a short period of time on items like these.

AVOID TOUCHING THE INFECTED AREAS

Avoid touching the infected area as much as possible. The virus can easily spread to other parts of your body, including the eyes and genitals. If you have to touch the affected area, immediately wash your hands after.