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Cold sores (oral herpes) Q&As

Published by Bupa's health information team, August 2008.

Answers to questions about oral herpes

This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.

 

Can I still give my partner a cold sore even when I don't have an active cold sore myself?

Yes, the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which causes cold sores, can be passed on from person to person if you don't have a cold sore.

Explanation

You can pass on HSV even if you don't have an obvious blister.

However, you are more likely to pass on HSV to other people from the time the cold sore starts to develop until it has healed.

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My child has had blistering of the mouth and gums. Can he/she get it again?

It's very unlikely that your child will get severe blistering of the mouth and gums again.

Explanation

Herpes simplex virus can cause blisters in and around the mouth and swollen painful gums the first time you catch it. This is called gingivostomatitis. After the initial infection has cleared up, the HSV lies dormant in his or her body but can become active from time to time. If and when the HSV becomes active again, the symptoms are usually much milder and are commonly known as "cold sores".

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Should I keep my child home from school if he/she has a cold sore or blistering of the mouth and gums?

No, you don't need to keep your child home from school.

Explanation

If your child has a cold sore or blistering of the mouth and gums but feels generally well otherwise, he or she can attend nursery or school. There is no need to keep him/her home.

However, to reduce the chance that any of the other children catch the virus, you should encourage your child not to touch the sores and, if he/she does, tell your child to wash his/her hands with soap and water straight away. You should also discourage your child from sharing anything that may have come into contact with the virus, such as cutlery.

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This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: August 2008.

 

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