What Virus Causes Fever Blisters?
Fever blisters found in the mouth are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 or the hsv-1. This cold sore virus is highly contagious and easily spread by direct skin contact with the affected area and sharing of body fluids. Indirect contact through sharing of personal items such as towels, toothbrush, lipstick and spoon, can also lead to the transmission of the virus. Statistics of Oral Herpes It is believed that 90% of Americans have been exposed to and have experienced one form of herpes at some time in their life. Half a million Americans are diagnosed every year, and to date, there is about 50 million of the population who have contracted the virus. However, most are not aware that they have them because the symptoms are hardly noticeable and no onsets of cold sore outbreaks are seen. First Signs of Oral Herpes The first signs of oral herpes virus infection usually occur within a week or two from contracting the hsv-1. Initially, you might see a small bump accompanied by some t