Generally cold sores are caused by a viral disease known as the herpes simplex virus. There are two different types of this virus. A lot of people find themselves asking, “Are cold sores an STD?” The first type of the herpes simplex virus typically causes cold sores and is fairly common. The second type of the herpes simplex virus is the virus that is known to cause genital herpes.
Herpes Simplex Virus
Type one of the herpes simplex virus can easily be spread through physically contact. If the physical content occurs in the genital area, cold sores can develop in the groin region. The herpes simplex virus can be spread by kissing an infected person while they have a cold sore, drinking after an infected person, or using the same cosmetics as someone with a cold sore. It is also wise to avoid using the same wash cloths or tooth brush as an infected person with an active outbreak. Practicing good hand washing procedures is also important to avoid spreading the herpes simplex virus. If an infected person touches their cold sore and then touches their eyes, genitals, or inside of their mouth it is possible to spread the infection to these areas of the body. The question of are cold sores an STD can easily be answered.
Are Cold Sores An STD?
Type one of the herpes simplex virus is not an STD. Type two of the herpes simplex is a sexually transmitted disease. While type of the of herpes simplex virus is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, if a person engages in oral sex with someone with an active outbreak, they could develop type two of the virus.