Do health experts consider cold sores an STD?

Oral herpes Genital herpes Causes HSV-1 spreads through contact with the virus in sores, saliva, or surfaces in or around the mouth. This spreads through sexual contact with a person who has HSV-2. Symptoms Blisters or ulcers will form in or around the mouth. Bumps, blisters, or ulcers form around the genitals or anus. Transmission HSV-1 spreads through oral contact with the virus in sores, saliva, or surfaces. HSV-2 spreads through contact with sores, skin, or fluids on the genitals or anus during sex. Complications HSV-1 might lead to brain inflammation or eye infection. Rarely, HSV-2 may transmit from mothers to children during childbirth. People with HSV-2 also have an increased risk of HIV. Prevention To prevent oral herpes, avoid sharing eating utensils, lip balm, or towels with those who have HSV-1, as well as avoiding oral contact. Using condoms, avoiding sexual contact during outbreaks, and taking antiviral medications can help sexually active people reduce their risk of genital herpes. Prevalence Over half of the worldwide population under 50 years old has HSV-1, but many are unaware. Around 13% of people between 15 to 49 years old worldwide have genital herpes.