Hello,
Welcome to Just Answer and thanks for your question. There are a huge number of herpes viruses. The one called herpes simplex 1 (HSV-1) causes cold sores around the mouth. When you have an outbreak around your mouth, you should no kiss anyone nor perform oral sex on anyone since it can transfer the virus to mucus membranes of the other person (lips, mouth, or genitals) and infect them. There is no cure for HSV-1 but taking an antiviral at the first tingling sensation of a cold sore forming can either prevent its forming or lessen the severity and duration that you have it.
The HSV-2 virus causes genital herpes. There are no cures for either virus, only treatment.
Before you get a cold sore, there is usually a slight tingling or itching the day before. It usually doesn't look any different than the surrounding skin, or it may be just a tiny bit swollen. At that point you would start to sue the antiviral medication prescribed by the doctor. It will have no effect on your health or generation. There are no antivirals available over the counter.
Nurse Practitioner
Board Certified Nurse Practitioner, MS, RN. Private practice and hospitalist experience.