The sores usually crust over and heal in 2 to 3 weeks. However, the virus remains in the body for life and sores may reappear later. Later outbreaks are often less severe, usually lasting 1 to 2 weeks. Some people have frequent outbreaks, while others may have very few outbreaks or none at all. In some cases, the blisters and sores may become infected making it harder to heal.
Eye infections can develop from touching the eye immediately after touching a sore.
If a pregnant woman has an active outbreak when giving birth, herpes can be passed to the baby. Babies born with herpes are at risk for brain and liver damage, lung inflammation, and blood clot problems. Testing The best time to test for herpes is when a visible herpes sore is present. Go to a doctor or clinic for testing before sores have crusted over. A swab is taken from the sore and tested for the virus.