Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) - Prevalence & Triggers Everyday Health MenuNewslettersSearch Cold Sores What Is HSV-1 By Lindsey KonkelMedically Reviewed by Robert Jasmer, MDReviewed: March 2, 2016Medically ReviewedNot everyone infected with the HSV-1 virus will get cold sores or experience symptoms. Many people with the virus may not even know they're infected.Getty ImagesThis common virus causes cold sores, but it doesn't always cause symptoms. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) spreads easily from person to person through direct contact with skin or contact with saliva. HSV-1 causes blistering sores around the mouth and lips. These sores are called cold sores, fever blisters, or oral herpes. HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes, but most cases of genital herpes are caused by a second type of herpes simplex virus, HSV-2. HSV-1 stays in your body, permanently, in an inactive state once you're infected. Certain triggers, such as stress, may periodically reactivate the virus and lead to recurrent symptoms and outbreaks. HSV-1 Prevalence HSV-1 infection is very common. The World Health Organization estimates that 67 percent of all people in the world younger than 50 have HSV-1. In the United States, an estimated 54 percent of people between the ages of 14 and 49 have HSV-1. Most people with HSV-1 become infected during childhood or adolescence. Not everyone with HSV-1 gets cold sores or has symptoms. Many people with the virus don't even know they're infected. How Do You Get Cold Sores Cold sores are very contagious. HSV-1 is transmitted mainly through mouth-to-mouth contact with an infected person. HSV-1 can be spread by:KissingSharing a cup or eating utensilsSharing lip balm or lipstickSharing a toothbrush, razor, towel, or any other object that may have come into contact with the herpes virusTouching an open cold soreOral sex (it's possible to get cold sores from giving oral sex to someone with herpes in the genital area) It's important to keep your hands clean if you have a cold sore, because cold sores can spread to other parts of the body from the mouth area. If you have a cold sore, wash your hands carefully before touching yourself or other people. Try not to touch your cold sore too much. In some people, an HSV-1 infection can spread to:Fingertips (especially in children who suck their thumbs)EyesOther areas of the skin (people with the skin condition eczema have a higher risk of spreading cold sores to other areas of their body) When you have a cold sore, avoid the following activities to protect other people from catching the infection:KissingSharing drinks, utensils, or other items that may have touched your lips or salivaGiving oral sex HSV-1 is most contagious when a cold sore is present, but it's still possible to spread HSV-1 to another person even if cold sores aren't present. NEWSLETTERS Sign up for our Sexual Health Newsletter SubscribeBy subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking Herpes - oral; MedlinePlus.A. Wald (2013). "U.S. Rates of HSV-1 and HSV-2 Infection Are Falling, Especially Among Whites." NEJM Journal Watch.Herpes simplex virus; World Health Organization.Show Less The Latest in Cold Sores Cold Sores Causes and PreventionBy Valencia HigueraAugust 18, 2022 Cold Sore vs Canker Sore Understanding the DifferenceBy Valencia HigueraAugust 11, 2022 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Cold SoresGot questions about cold sores? Here’s a look at 10 frequently asked questions to help you recognize, treat, and avoid these blisters.By Valencia HigueraAugust 10, 2022 Cold Sore Symptoms and DiagnosisBy Valencia HigueraAugust 8, 2022 A Detailed Guide to Help You Get Rid of Cold SoresBy Valencia HigueraAugust 3, 2022 What Are Cold Sores Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment and PreventionBy Valencia HigueraSeptember 18, 2020 How to Hide a Cold Sore There's never a good time for a cold sore, but stressing about it can make it worse. Here, how to cover up so you feel like your most confident self.By Chris Iliades, MDApril 3, 2013 The Four Best At-Home STD Tests of 2022At-home STD tests offer accurate results, and in some cases post-diagnosis care, without the need to leave your home. Check out our guide to the best ...By Chrissy HolmOctober 6, 2022 People Are Flocking to a Hotline With Their Miscarriage and Abortion QuestionsCalls to this free, anonymous service are up substantially since the fall of Roe v. Wade.By Meryl Davids LandauSeptember 23, 2022 8 Myths About Medication Abortion and Abortion PillsQuestions about medication abortion? Here we refute the many myths and give you the facts about this safe and effective procedure.By Meryl Davids LandauSeptember 21, 2022 MORE IN 9 Frequently Asked Questions About Canker Sores How Do I Know if I Have Herpes or Something Else Cold Sore Home Remedies and Treatment Options