The herpes simplex virus comes in two strains. Type 1 (HSV-1) causes ‘cold sores’ around the mouth and nose.

Herpes simplex viruses are highly contagious.  Most of us carry herpes simplex viruses lying dormant in the nerves at the junction of skin and mucous membranes. Every now and then, in some people, dormant viruses become active, causing cold sores.

Attacks appear to be triggered by; emotional upset; fatigue and tiredness; colds or other viruses; menstrual periods; strong sunlight and cold winds

Treatment

The most effective remedy currently available for herpes simplex is the drug aciclovir. It stops the virus from reproducing by interfering with its DNA.

Aciclovir is available as a cream for the treatment of herpes on the lips and eyes. It can also safely be taken by mouth in tablet form and becomes widely distributed throughout the body.

There is no effective preventive treatment

Symptoms

An outbreak of cold sores usually starts with tingling around the mouth, then small blisters appear, these then grow in size and cause irritation, soreness and pain. They then become encrusted and most disappear within a week or so.