When is hsv1 contagious

Some people never have any additional outbreaks beyond the initial infection. The following are the most common signs and symptoms of a recurring oral herpes simplex virus infection. Painful, fluid-filled blisters may appear on the lips or under the nose.

The blisters and fluid are highly contagious. The signs and symptoms of an oral herpes outbreak may look like other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your health care provider for an accurate diagnosis.

Since oral herpes can be confused with many other infections, including allergic reactions, a virus culture PCR , blood test or biopsy are the only ways to confirm your diagnosis.

However, your health care provider may also diagnose your condition based on the location and appearance of the blisters. Although the specific triggers that cause oral herpes to recur are unclear, several factors may play a role. These include:. While recurrent outbreaks are more common in the first year after the initial episode, they tend to lessen as the body builds antibodies to the virus.

Taking antiviral oral medications, such as acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir these medications are traditionally the most effective.

Causes of Oral Herpes Oral herpesis spread most commonly from individuals with an active outbreak or sore. There are five different stages of a cold sore.

The first stage starts about 24 hours before the blister appears. The blister appears in stage 2…. Cold sores are red, fluid-filled blisters that usually form near your mouth or other areas of your face. There's no cure for cold sores and they may…. Without treatment, fever blisters can last up to four weeks. After treatment, you…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect.

Medically reviewed by Cameron White, M. Transmission Incidence Symptoms Treatment Preventing spread Takeaway Overview Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or around the lips and mouth.

How are they spread? How common are they? How do I know if I have the virus? How are they treated? How can I avoid spreading them?

The takeaway. Cold Sores. However, a person is much more likely to pass on HSV-1 when cold sores are present. People who develop cold sores may experience them less frequently as they age. Reactivation also tends to be more common in the first year after the initial outbreak. Symptoms typically last for up to 2 weeks , though some people may not develop any symptoms at all.

Many people experience a burning, itching, or tingling sensation on or around the lips 1—2 days before a cold sore appears. This is called the prodrome stage. During the next stage, fluid filled blisters will develop.

Around a third of people experience cold sores at the same location each time. Within 48 hours , the blisters tend to burst and leak fluid. This stage can be painful and may last for around 3 days. This is when the cold sores may be most contagious. In the final stage, a scab forms over the wound. The scab may crack or bleed until it finally clears up. Once the skin is clear of the cold sore, it is no longer possible to transmit it to someone else.

Most cold sore outbreaks do not require a visit to the doctor. They typically clear up on their own within 7—12 days.

Trying home treatments during this time can reduce discomfort. They can also prevent transmission to other parts of the body and other people.

People should see their doctor if cold sores are severe or persist beyond 15 days. A doctor may recommend:. People who experience regular outbreaks may need to take prescription medication to keep their symptoms under control.

In these cases, the cold sores may not go away on their own. Medical treatment can also help prevent complications. When cold sores are present, people should take extra precautions during contact with people who have weaker immune systems. This includes children and newborn babies, whose immune systems have had less time to develop. People can also take measures to reduce their chance of experiencing a cold sore outbreak. These include:.

There is currently no cure for cold sores.