Do cold sores mean you have an STD?
Having a cold sore does not necessarily mean you have an STD. Most of the cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which usually affects the lips and is not generally transmitted by sexual contact. Though less common, cold sores may be caused by another type of herpes simplex virus called HSV-2.
What kind of cold sores are there?
There are two types of herpes simplex infection: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Cold sores around the mouth (often called ‘oral herpes‘) are generally caused by HSV-1.
What causes cold sores on lips?
Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex. Once you have the virus, it stays in your skin for the rest of your life. Sometimes it causes a cold sore. Most people are exposed to the virus when they’re young after close skin to skin contact, such as kissing, with someone who has a cold sore.