The
answer to this question is a resounding YES! The herpes simplex virus that is
responsible for cold sores is extremely easy to spread, even if the person
infected does not have an active cold sore.
The
HSV-1 virus that causes cold sores is carried by roughly 80% of the population,
with the majority typically infected before the age of five. Once infected, the
virus will remain in the body permanently, although for most of the time it
will lay dormant. Although generally situated near the mouth, it can be spread
all over the body, and just to reiterate, the HSV-1 virus can be spread by an
infected person although they may not be suffering an eruption at that time.
The
most widespread means of transferring the HSV-1 virus is via contaminated
objects, such as a toothbrush or lip balm. If they have become infected and
then shared by another person, the risk of that person contracting a cold sore
is greatly increased. Sharing is clearly an obvious mistake.
However,
the biggest chance of being infected by the HSV-1 virus will come as a result
of coming into contact with someone with an active cold sore. At the first
stage, the tingle stage, the virus has been activated although the cold sore
has not yet presented. The risk of spreading is raised at this stage, but
becomes even riskier at the weeping stage, when the cold sore bursts and emits
fluid.
It is essential to understand that the HSV-1 virus can be
spread to various parts of the sufferer’s body. An example of this is the HSV-1
infection of the fingers, herpetic whitlow, which can be very painful. Thorough
washing of hands is vital to prevent spreading the virus.
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