The virus that causes cold sores is common. Most people have been infected with this virus (herpes simplex virus, or HSV) by the time they reach adulthood.
Although most people have been exposed to HSV, only about 20% to 40% develop recurring cold sores.1 After a person becomes infected, the virus remains inactive in the body until it is triggered by something such as sunlight exposure or stress. When active, the virus results in a cold sore outbreak.
Credits
| Author | Ralph Poore |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Associate Editor | Terrina Vail |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology |
| Last Updated | April 7, 2006 |
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