Conditions · FAQ
Can I spread cold sores while taking antiviral medicine?
Short answer
Yes. You can still spread the herpes virus while taking medicine for cold sores. Avoid kissing and oral sex from the first tingling until the skin has fully healed. The virus can also spread when no sore is visible, so treatment does not make close contact risk-free.
Cold sores can spread through direct contact with infected skin or saliva. The risk is highest during an active outbreak, including the tingling stage before blisters appear. The virus can also be present on the skin without a visible sore. Taking an antiviral does not make kissing or oral sex risk-free.
Avoid kissing and oral sex from the first warning sign until the sore has fully healed and the skin is intact. Oral herpes can spread to a partner's genitals through oral sex. Condoms and dental dams do not cover every area that may carry the virus, so they do not remove all risk.
Do not share lip balm or other items that touch the sore or saliva. Wash your hands after touching your lips or applying medicine, and avoid touching your eyes. Never kiss a newborn while you have an active cold sore. Herpes can be very serious in babies. If a newborn has had direct contact with an active sore, contact the baby's clinician promptly for guidance.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.