Symptoms can occur a bit differently in each child. What are the symptoms of cold sores in a child? Which children are at risk for cold sores?Ī child is more at risk for cold sores if he or she lives with someone infected with the herpes simplex virus. Hot sun, cold wind, illness, or a weak immune system can cause cold sores to occur.
The cold sores usually don't last longer than 2 weeks. It can then become active at any time and cause cold sores. Once a child is infected with the herpes simplex virus, the virus becomes inactive (dormant) for long periods of time. The virus can also be spread to others 24 to 48 hours before the cold sore appears. It can be spread to others by kissing, sharing cups or utensils, sharing washcloths or towels, or by touching the cold sore before it is healed. The herpes simplex virus in a cold sore is contagious. The most common strain of the virus that causes cold sores is herpes simplex virus 1. They are sometimes called fever blisters. Herpes Simplex Virus (Cold Sores) in Children What are cold sores in children?Ĭold sores are small blisters around the mouth caused by the herpes simplex virus.
