How you get Cold Sores
So now you're probably wondering how you got herpes in the first place. Blisters and ulcers of herpes simplex are filled with a virus that is highly contagious until they heal. Cold sores can be transmitted even when blisters are not present but the greatest risk of infection is from the time blisters appear until they are completely dry and crusted over. Herpes can be spread by sharing eating utensils, razors and towels and with any skin contact. When you have a cold sore, it is important to avoid contact with infants, people with eczema and people with suppressed immune systems like those suffering from cancer or AIDS or who have had an organ transplant. These people are at a higher risk of a severe infection.
Avoid spreading herpes to other parts of your body and passing on to other people by:
- avoiding kissing and skin contact
- keeping hands clean and washing them carefully before touching others
- taking care when touching other parts of your body, especially eyes and the genital area which are particularly susceptible
Herpes can cause eye infections or ulceration of the cornea. Scarring of the cornea is a leading cause of blindness so it is very important to be aware of touching your eyes when you have a cold sore. In rare cases herpes can infect the brain and other parts of the central nervous system producing meningitis and encephalitis. This usually only occurs in adults with immune deficiency disorder.
