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Cold Sores & Fever Blisters in Toddlers

Cold sores form when your toddler becomes infected by the herpes simplex virus. Two types of the herpes virus result in sores: herpes simplex type 1 causes oral sores and herpes simplex type 2 causes genital herpes. However, both types of herpes viruses can cause sores on the face or genitals. Cold sores are also referred to as fever blisters due to the pus-filled blisters that develop on the lips.

  1. Transmission

    • Many people will get infected with oral herpes before adulthood. Toddlers can get cold sores by kissing infected individuals, using contaminated eating utensils, playing with an infected child or by touching infected saliva. Children usually get cold sores from mouthing contaminated toys, according to Pediatric Dental Health, a website that provides dental health information. The herpes virus can transmit from an infected mother to her newborn. The virus can then periodically appear, developing in cold sores.

    Symptoms

    • A first bout with the herpes simplex virus will cause mouth soreness. Your toddler may develop sores on the inside of his mouth, fever, swollen lymph nodes and loss of appetite. If your toddler has blisters within his mouth, he may also have foul-smelling breath. Recurring outbreaks will begin with a tingling sensation two days before an outbreak, according to the Mayo Clinic. Your child may scratch at his mouth, and blisters can last up to two weeks.

    Toddler Treatments

    • Applying an ice pack to the affected area can provide comfort to your toddler. Acetaminophen can alleviate pain, but consult with your pediatrician on appropriate dosing guidelines. Your toddler may become dehydrated due to the pain associated with cold sores. Offering plenty of fluids, such as water and non-acidic juices, with a straw can prevent your toddler from becoming dehydrated. Offer soft, mushy food such as oatmeal. Ask your pediatrician about oral acyclovir, which can help your toddler recover from a cold sore outbreak.

    Prevent Spreading

    • Since the herpes virus can pass to other body parts, teach your toddler to not pick at the cold sores. Help her wash her hands after eating and using the potty. Avoid kissing your toddler until her cold sores disappear. Exposure to sunlight can trigger an outbreak. Put a hat and lip balm on your toddler when you go outside.

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