What are the triggers for a cold sore outbreak?

Common triggers are thought to be sun exposure, stress, fatigue, menstruation, fever, illness, dry chapped lips, skin trauma or a common cold.

Are cold sores contagious?

Cold sores are contagious. The virus can be passed on from person to person through close physical (skin-to-skin) contact or saliva even when blisters are not present. The infection is most commonly acquired as a baby or child from contact with parents or relatives, often from kissing. It can also be acquired in later life from activities such as oral sex.

Although it is possible to transfer the virus even when there is no apparent cold sore, the risk is much higher when the cold sore is visible, as the virus can be shed making it easy to infect other people.

Can cold sores be treated?

Cold sores can be treated to help reduce pain and speed healing.

For the best results, you should commence treatment as soon as possible.