From the Research
Yes, HSV-1 can spread to other areas of your own body after the primary infection has resolved, a process called autoinoculation, as supported by the most recent study available 1. This typically happens during the first few weeks after initial infection, before your body has developed sufficient antibodies. After this period, the risk decreases significantly but doesn't completely disappear. To prevent self-spread, it is essential to:
- Avoid touching active cold sores and then touching other parts of your body, especially the eyes, genitals, or broken skin.
- Always wash hands thoroughly after touching any sores.
- If you have an active outbreak, use separate towels and personal care items. The virus spreads through direct contact with the fluid from herpes blisters or sometimes from asymptomatic viral shedding. Your immune system generally develops antibodies that help protect uninfected areas of your body from new HSV-1 infections, but this protection isn't perfect, especially if you're immunocompromised, as discussed in various studies 2, 3, 4, 5. If you notice symptoms in new areas, consult a healthcare provider promptly.