Communication is the key to every relationship. So you shouldnt feel uneasy about telling somebody you are seeing that you get cold sores. Having a cold sore is nothing to whisper about. Its really no big deal.

Should I disclose cold sores?

In addition to talking with your doctor about cold sores, you may need to disclose your infection to other individuals. Since the virus can spread through kissing and sexual contact, its important to tell your intimate partners (both current and former) about your diagnosis.

What if your partner gets cold sores?

If a person has cold sores on their lips, they can transmit them to their partners mouth during kissing. They can also transmit them to their partners genitals during oral sex. Similarly, a genital HSV-1 infection can be transmitted to a partners genitals or their mouth. HSV-2 oral infections are possible.