Cold Sore and Herpes Virus

Dear Ask The Doctor: This Is My Second Time Getting A Cold Sore In My Life But It Only Happens When I Get Really Sick. Does This Mean I Have Herpes?

Dear Kesha: Cold sores are caused by the Herpes simplex virus type 1 ( HSV-1). It is important to remember that this is not the same as genital herpes which is caused by herpes virus type 2 ( HSV -2) . Since you are getting cold sore you definitely are infected by HSV-1. This virus remains dormant in the body and usually at times of body stress and low immunity like onset of other illnesses, stress the virus reactivates it self and causes cold sores. Prior to getting the cold sore you may notice some numbness or tingling in the area.

These sores are infectious and thus can spread through contact to other parts of the body, thus it is improtant to maintain good sanitary methods. You need to get it treated by topical creams like zovirax which is extremely effective.