How to Catch a Cold Sore

Cold sores are contagious, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear around the mouth, nose and chin. Some people also get cold sores on the hands, or in the mouth or eyes. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Herpes has no cure, but not everyone exposed to the virus contracts the disease. People react differently to the herpes virus. Some people get multiple outbreaks, while others get one cold sore during their lives.

Instructions

• 1

  Touch infected people. Once a cold sore develops, it takes about 7 to 10 days to heal. During this time, a person is at his most contagious. Kissing a person who has a cold sore around his mouth will greatly increase your chances of getting herpes. Try not to have any physical contact with a person who has a herpes outbreak. This includes sex.

• 2

  Share personal items. Herpes can be easily passed along if you touch or use items of the infected person. This includes towels, clothing, eating utensils, and toothbrushes. To reduce risks, don't drink out of the same glass or soda can as a person with an active cold sore.

• 3

  Keep hands unwashed. Not washing your hand is one way to increase the risk of getting cold sores. If you touch an infected towel and then touch your face, eyes or genitals, you could possibly spread the virus to other areas of your body. It is important to wash you hand thoroughly and frequently whenever you think you might have been exposed to the virus.

• 4

  Go into the sun without sunblock. Using a sunscreen or sunblock is important in protecting the skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. Sunblock also helps to reduce the chances of a herpes outbreak. There is evidence that the sun triggers cold sores. If you have been exposed to herpes, this does not mean you will definitely get herpes or have outbreaks. Using sunblock lowers the odds.

• 5

  Have a poor diet. A healthy and balanced diet strengthens the immune system. By eating nutritious foods with high levels of vitamins and minerals, you can protect your body from harmful substances. Echinacea is a popular herb for improving the immune system. Vitamin C also fights infections. While there is no scientific proof that taking these supplements or eating a good diet will prevent cold sores, there is evidence that a strong immune system can possibly reduce the number of cold sores and accelerate the healing time.