What is it?
A viral infection called Herpes Simplex or cold cores, usually Type 1. Type 2 most often is the cause of genital herpes. Type 1 is usually found around and inside the mouth. Type 1 can be transmitted to the genital area.
The incubation period is 3 to 12 days. A sore throat and fever may precede the onset of painful vesicles (blisters) occurring anywhere in the mouth/lips area. The fever subsides in 3 to 5 days and the oral pain and blisters are usually gone in two weeks.
Once a person contracts the herpes virus in a particular area, the virus travels up the nerve plexus after the clinical symptoms have disappeared. They later can descend down the nerves to the area to create a new case of "active" herpes.
Mode of Transmission
Contact with the fluid from the blisters of cold sores is the most common cause of spreading the virus. Herpes virus generally requires direct intimate contact (mouth to genitals) with the infected area. This can be by kissing or unwashed hands.
Predisposing Factors
A few days prior to the actual outbreak of active lesions, many people experience "warning signals" or symptoms. These can include:
- Burning
- Tingling
- Irritation to area
- Stress
- Poor diet
- Lack of sleep
- Illness/ trauma
- Sun and wind exposure
If you have Herpes (Cold Sores):
Wash hands after touching face or lips at anytime.
Try to keep sores clean and dry.
Avoid kissing, sharing towels, toothbrushes while sores are active.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Is there a cure?
There is no real cure for cold sores once they start, but each attack can be treated to ease the discomfort. Some over-the-counter medications can be effective in keeping the size of the cold sore small and dry.
For more information contact Public Health at 352-7270 or online at CKhealth@chatham-kent.ca
Adapted with permission from Elgin-St. Thomas Health Unit.