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BellyScratchFTW OP t1_j6nlejd wrote

Reply to comment by XercesGetsDown in The amount of people that do not know that a cold sore is herpes is surprising. by BellyScratchFTW

Cold sores are HSV-1 (herpes simplex virus 1). The ones downstairs are HSV-2. Both can be spread through contact. And HSV-1 can even be spread downstairs via contact on someone. Likewise, HSV-2 can be spread to mouths.

When having sexual encounters, use protection. If a cold sore/fever blister is present, do not share drinks, kiss, etc. HSV-1 generally does not spread unless the blisters are present.

But the virus will ALWAYS be in your system. If your immune system is ever compromised, it may present itself again.

Hopefully they'll come up with a cure for it some day.

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