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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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When Should I Disclose A Past Cold Sore To A Partner, And Is Kissing Safe?

Hi, I ve gotten a cold sore for the first time about four years ago and none since. I ve found that cold sores are considered herpes. I don t want other people to deal with these worries, but am also worried it will affect my dating life. When/should I disclose this to future partners? Secondarily, is kissing safe, and should I disclose this before I kiss them?
posted on Wed, 10 Jan 2024
Twitter Sat, 30 Aug 2025 Answered on
Twitter Mon, 1 Sep 2025 Last reviewed on
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HIV AIDS Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,

Herpes Simplex virus type 1 causes cold sores. It is not a sexually transmitted infection. Anyone can get this infection including children. It is not a life threatening disease, Nearly 50-60% of population across the world are affected by this infection and it can recur and is a self limiting disease.

Do not worry about this. It can be transmitted through kissing and sharing drinking glass and straw. Viral shedding may be there in the absence of lesion, before and after the recurrence for few days. It may be infectious in those days also. You can disclose to your partner.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Sankaranantham Murugan, HIV AIDS Specialist
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When Should I Disclose A Past Cold Sore To A Partner, And Is Kissing Safe?

Hi, Herpes Simplex virus type 1 causes cold sores. It is not a sexually transmitted infection. Anyone can get this infection including children. It is not a life threatening disease, Nearly 50-60% of population across the world are affected by this infection and it can recur and is a self limiting disease. Do not worry about this. It can be transmitted through kissing and sharing drinking glass and straw. Viral shedding may be there in the absence of lesion, before and after the recurrence for few days. It may be infectious in those days also. You can disclose to your partner. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Sankaranantham Murugan, HIV AIDS Specialist