MOUTH HERPES

What are the symptoms?

A small cluster of tiny blisters, filled with clear fluid usually found on the lips. They burst and leave small ulcers, which scab over. One often gets these cold sores when one has got flu or a runny nose or is running a temperature or feels run down. Sunlight may act as a trigger.

What to do?

There’s no need to be panicky. Don’t kiss or have oral sex until the sores have completely cleared up, as there is a risk of passing the virus on. If the sores are troublesome, go to your family physician.

How to avoid spreading it to others and reinfecting yourself?

The blisters and sores are highly contagious and the virus can be passed on to others through contact, so avoid any direct contact between the sores and other people. These are the steps you might take to avoid spreading the virus to others:

• No kissing or genital contact when you or your partner has cold sores around the mouth.
• Always wash your hands with soap and water after touching the sores.
• Don’t share towels.
• Never use saliva to wet contact lenses.

| Herpes | Genital Herpes | Mouth Herpes |