Does kissing with a cold sore cause herpes infection?

Question

Hello Doctor,

I recently learned about cold sores and their implications. My partner (female) developed a cold sore on her lips, but we initially thought it was just a cut. We kissed multiple times before realizing what it was. After asking her, she mentioned having cold sores in the past but never received a positive test for HSV-1 is Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) or HSV-2. We have been in a relationship for two years, engaging in unprotected sex, but I have never experienced any symptoms. Since I kissed her while she had an active cold sore over the past two days, does this mean I have instantly contracted the virus, or is there still a possibility that I have not? Additionally, does having a cold sore confirm that she 100 percent has herpes? If the virus has been dormant in her, could our unprotected sex over the past two years mean I already have it, even without symptoms?

Is there any medication available that could prevent the virus from developing in my body after exposure?

Kindly advise!

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to iCliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I appreciate you reaching out to iCliniq. I understand your concerns, and I am here to guide you through this. Based on your symptoms and the picture you provided, it appears that you have developed a mouth ulcer. This could be caused by various infectious agents, including bacteria, viruses, protozoa, or fungi. If left untreated, it may spread to your partner. The possibility of HSV is indeed a consideration in such cases. To confirm, I recommend the following tests:

Tzanck test for herpes simplex virus.
Malaria parasite test.
Mouth swab test.

Please get these tests done and share the results with me for further evaluation.

Treatment Plan:

Acyclovir 800 milligram – Two tablets, PO, twice daily for one week.
Co-Amoxiclav 625 milligram – Two tablets, PO, twice daily for one week.
Metronidazole 400 milligrams – Two tablets, PO, three times daily for one week.
Vitamin C 1000 International Units – YTwo tablets, PO, three times daily for one week.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.