How long does it take after a Herpes cold sore appears, for it to stop being contagious? I know the virus can always be passed, even without symptoms, but if it is highly contagious during an outbreak, when is that period over? Does the skin need to be completely healed, or by the time it starts to heal is it less contagious then? Thank you!

Home / Answered Questions / How long does it take after a Herpes cold sore appears, for it to stop being contagious? I know the virus can always be passed, even without symptoms, but if it is highly contagious during an outbreak, when is that period over? Does the skin need to be completely healed, or by the time it starts to heal is it less contagious then? Thank you!

How long does it take after a Herpes cold sore appears, for it to stop being contagious? I know the virus can always be passed, even without symptoms, but if it is highly contagious during an outbreak, when is that period over? Does the skin need to be completely healed, or by the time it starts to heal is it less contagious then? Thank you!

The easiest time to pass herpes is when someone is having an outbreak as there is more virus on the skin. It is best to avoid contact to the area from the time someone first get any warning signs (tingles, burning skin sensation), when having the outbreak and until it has healed and fresh skin has grown back.

Have a look at our herpes web page for more information.

Please leave a comment to let us know if this answers your question or if you need more information.

Health Nurse

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This answer was posted on December 9, 2014.

This answer was updated on February 7, 2022.

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