When you hear the word "infection" you probably think of people sneezing on you or about that time you didn't wash your hands. Because, let's face it, most of the time an infection means you were recently exposed to some germs. But with cold sores, that's not always the case.
When those blisters show up on your mouth or lips, they came from somewhere. You may have gotten the virus a while ago and never had an actual cold sore appear on your skin (this is also referred to as "lying dormant.") But now, the virus has woken up from its sleep and is appearing on your skin. Other viruses you may have heard of that lie dormant and then wake up include chickenpox, shingles, and genital herpes.
Cold Sores Can Happen At Any Time To Anyone
At some point in your life, you may have come into contact with someone who had the virus. Most people get it from kissing another person who has an active cold sore or lesion. But it can also come from sharing towels, utensils, or razors (among other things) with someone who has the virus. That's because the active cold sore lesion has directly touched those items and the virus has been shed onto them.
Babies And Cold Sores. The Ugly Truth
If you have a baby, be sure that your friends and family members who have noticeable cold sores or lesions avoid kissing your baby. While you may feel uncomfortable telling a relative or friend with a cold sore not to kiss your baby's face, it's the best way to keep your baby protected.