Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are small, fluid-filled blisters that typically appear on or around the lips. They are a common viral infection that many people experience. When a cold sore develops, a frequent concern arises about whether it is safe to go swimming.
How Cold Sores Spread
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), a highly contagious virus. Once a person contracts HSV-1, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate periodically, leading to outbreaks. The primary way HSV-1 spreads is through direct skin-to-skin contact, such as kissing. Sharing personal items like eating utensils, towels, razors, or lip balm can also transmit the virus.
The fluid inside cold sore blisters contains the virus, making the sore most contagious when it is oozing or weeping. The virus can also spread even when no visible blisters are present, a phenomenon known as asymptomatic shedding. The herpes simplex virus is fragile and does not typically survive for long in water, especially in treated swimming pools. Chlorine effectively kills the herpes virus, making transmission through the water itself highly unlikely.
Swimming and Cold Sore Risks
While the risk of transmitting the cold sore virus through pool water is minimal due to dilution and chlorine, swimming with an active cold sore presents other considerations. Chlorine and saltwater can dry out and irritate the delicate skin of the cold sore, which may prolong the healing process or increase discomfort.
An open or weeping cold sore is also vulnerable to secondary bacterial infections from the water or surrounding environment. The risk of spreading the virus remains in communal areas associated with swimming. Sharing towels, goggles, or coming into direct contact with others in locker rooms or showers can facilitate transmission.
When to Swim and When to Avoid
Deciding whether to swim with a cold sore depends on its healing stage. Avoid swimming if the cold sore is new, weeping, blistering, or an open wound. During these stages, the sore is most contagious and susceptible to irritation or secondary infection. Waiting until the cold sore has crusted over and is in the healing phase is advisable.
If swimming is necessary during the healing process, covering the cold sore can offer a protective barrier. A waterproof bandage or a specialized cold sore patch can shield the sore from water and minimize irritation. Such coverings can also reduce the (already low) risk of accidental direct contact transmission. Regardless of the sore’s stage, maintaining good hygiene, like washing hands thoroughly after touching the cold sore, is always recommended.
Cold Sore Care and Prevention
Managing a cold sore effectively involves several practical steps to promote healing and reduce spread. Avoid touching the cold sore, and if touched, wash hands immediately with soap and water. To prevent transmission, refrain from sharing personal items like eating utensils, drinks, or lip products.
Over-the-counter antiviral creams containing docosanol can shorten healing time when applied early. Pain-relieving creams can also alleviate discomfort. Cold sore outbreaks can be triggered by various factors, including stress, sun exposure, fever, or illness. Identifying and avoiding personal triggers, such as using sunblock lip balm for sun-induced outbreaks, can help reduce outbreak frequency.