Can I catch cold sores this way? I've never done this and I don't want it at all, I'm very worried.

Question

Hello. I shared a drink with a friend before I knew she could do cold sores. She said she had dry lip corners and I am very very worried. Hello! I had provided several details and I feel like they didn't register. My friend and I shared a drink and she told me later that she sometimes does cold sores. I'm really worried, I don't want to do any at all. Am I worrying about nothing? Can I do it now? It looks like it's been heating up from the left side of my lip and I see like a little pimple, but I'm also in the South and my skin has had a funny texture since the beginning of the week. Anyway, I'm very worried Thank you so much, that puts my mind at ease!!!

David Maurier · Accepted Answer

Hello! Cold sores are caused by the herpes virus (herpes simplex type 1, or HSV-1). The main method of transmission is when there is direct contact (skin-to-skin) between lesions on the infected person and an entry point in the uninfected person (e.g., wound, sore, etc.). Transmission from an object such as a glass to another person is very rare! In fact, for transmission to occur in this way, the glass must have been in contact with your friend's lesions, and then you must have quickly glued the glass to a wound on your lip for example. The herpes virus only survives for a few seconds on inanimate surfaces! So, if your friend only had dry lips (no visible lesions) and your lips were not split, it is practically impossible that you are infected! Great evening!