Contact can occur directly, or through contact with infected razors, towels, dishes, etc. The herpes virus can also infect the fetus and cause congenital abnormalities. The first symptoms usually appear 1 or 2 weeks after contact with an infected person, or up to as late as 20 or more days after exposure. The lesions of herpes labialis usually last for 7 to 10 days, then begin to resolve. The virus may become latent, residing in the nerve cells, with recurrence at or near the original site.
Recurrence is usually milder.
It may be triggered by menstrual periods, sun exposure, illness with fever , or other unknown causes. The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 Copyright and Privacy Policy , We welcome your comments.