Unfortunately, once a person gets the herpes simplex virus Type 1, he or she can spread the virus to another person even if they do not have the symptoms. While cold sores are most contagious when the blisters appear, even if the person does not have the blisters, he or she has the ability to infect others through touch. (See Reference 1)

As long as the cold sores are present during an active outbreak, there is a higher chance of the person infecting others. Cold sores are most contagious when the fluid-filled blisters erupt and ooze. The fluid that comes out of the blisters is filled with the virus and when this fluid comes in contact with skin that is cut or broken, it causes transference of the virus. (See Reference 1)

It has been estimated that over 70 percent of people in the US suffer from cold sores, and many people wonder how long they are contagious when they have an outbreak. The bad news is that cold sores are contagious all the time regardless of whether the blisters are present or not. Once the virus enters the body, it is not possible to eliminate it.

Rather than wondering how long are cold sores contagious, a person should to make an effort to ensure that they do not infect others around them. The person should practice proper hygiene methods to prevent the infection from spreading to others and this involves washing hands regularly and not touching the infected area and then touching some other surface. Also, refraining from kissing can help in transferring the virus to others.

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