Prevent Cold Sores From Spreading

Cold sores represent more of an annoyance than a serious health threat, but in rare cases, oral herpes may be dangerous. For example, if the virus spreads to the eyes, infection and permanent scarring may occur.

To protect yourself and others from cold sores, take the following important precautions:

• If you feel tingling, burning, itching, or tenderness in a place where you have previously had an oral herpes infection, keep that part of your body away from other people.
• Don't squeeze, pinch, or pick at cold sore blisters.
• Wash your hands carefully after touching cold sores, particularly before touching another person, your eyes or your genitals.
• Call your health care provider if cold sores spread, appear near the eyes or genitals, or last longer than two weeks. Also call with any questions about anti-herpes medicines.