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Cold Sores in Children: What Parents Should Know
Cold sores in children are common and are caused by herpes simplex virus, usually HSV-1. Many children first meet the virus through a kiss or a shared cup. A pediatrician should see a child with a sore near the eye, with a fever, or with trouble eating. Reviralis capsules are not for anyone under 18.
Written by the Reviralis label deskUpdated · 4 min read
The basics01
Are cold sores common in children?
Yes. HSV-1, the usual cause of cold sores, is one of the most common viruses in the world, and many people meet it in childhood.
WHO estimates that about 64 percent of people under 50 carry HSV-1 (WHO, Herpes Simplex Virus Fact Sheet). A first infection in a young child may bring a sore or blisters in and around the mouth. Some children have no sign at all.
The virus has no cure. After a first infection it stays in the body, and sores can return later (CDC, About Genital Herpes).
How it spreads02
How do children catch cold sores?
Mostly through close contact: a kiss from a person with the virus, or sharing items that touch the mouth.
Mayo Clinic says cold sores spread by kissing and by sharing utensils, towels and similar items, and the virus can pass even when no sore shows (Mayo Clinic, Cold Sore Symptoms and Causes). A loving relative with a sore or a tingle can pass it on without meaning to.
| Situation | What helps |
|---|---|
| An adult has a sore or a tingle | Skip kissing the child until it is gone |
| A child has a sore | Use separate cups, towels and utensils |
| Play with other children | Ask the child not to share drinks or lip products |
| Touching the sore | Wash hands, and keep fingers away from eyes |
At home03
How are cold sores in children cared for at home?
Most clear up by themselves, so home care is about comfort and not spreading the virus.
Offer cool, soft foods and plenty of fluids. Avoid acidic or salty foods that sting. Keep the child from picking at the sore. Ask your pediatrician or pharmacist before giving any medicine or cream, because doses depend on age. We do not give children's doses here.
Herpes has no cure, and a clinician decides whether a prescription antiviral suits a case (CDC, STI Treatment Guidelines: Herpes). Our post on cold sore patches covers one over-the-counter option, though it is aimed at adults.
Reviralis: from $49 a bottle60 capsules a bottle · 2, 3 or 6 bottles · free US shipping on 3 and 6 · 60-day money-back guarantee
See packsWhen to call04
When should you call a pediatrician about a cold sore?
Call the same day if the sore is near the eye, if there is fever, or if the child cannot drink or eat.
Mayo Clinic advises care for sores that do not heal within two weeks, for frequent sores, for weak immunity and for any painful or gritty eye (Mayo Clinic, Cold Sore Symptoms and Causes). A sore on a very young baby needs prompt attention. Fever with a stiff neck is an emergency. Read more in herpes near the eye.
- Painful sores near the eyesHerpes in or near the eye can harm sight. Get care the same day.
- A first outbreak, or sores you are unsure aboutA clinician can confirm what it is and talk about antivirals and partner safety.
- Sores that do not heal in 2 to 3 weeksOr frequent outbreaks. Ask about daily suppression.
- A weakened immune systemOutbreaks can be longer or more severe. Tell your clinician about any outbreak.
- Fever, stiff neck, severe headache or confusionCall 911 or go to an emergency room.
- Pregnant, or a new baby with sores or feverCall a clinician or emergency care right away.
From the CDC and Mayo Clinic (CDC, About Genital Herpes) (CDC, STI Treatment Guidelines: Herpes) (Mayo Clinic, Cold Sore Symptoms and Causes). This list is not complete, and a supplement is never a reason to wait.
About the capsule05
Can children take Reviralis?
No. The label says it is not for use in individuals under 18, and we do not suggest it for children.
Reviralis Complete is a dietary supplement for adults, not an antiviral. Its label never mentions cold sores, and no source shows it prevents or lessens outbreaks. Please keep every supplement out of the reach of children. See the who it is for page and the side effects page for the label cautions.
FAQ06
Reviralis questions people ask
Are cold sores in children serious?
Most are mild and clear without treatment. They become more serious when near the eye, with fever, in a very young baby, or in a child with weak immunity. Those cases need a pediatrician.
How long do cold sores last in children?
Healing time varies from child to child. Mayo Clinic advises seeing a clinician if a sore lasts longer than two weeks, spreads, or keeps recurring. Your pediatrician can advise on your child's case.
Can a child go to school with a cold sore?
Rules vary by school and daycare, so ask yours. The sore is most contagious while blistered, and children should not share cups or kiss others until it is gone. A pediatrician can advise if a child is unwell.
Can a parent with a cold sore kiss a baby?
It is safest not to. Keep a sore from touching a young baby, wash your hands, and avoid kissing the baby until your sore is gone. Call a pediatrician at once if a baby has a sore or fever.
Is Reviralis safe for teenagers?
The label says it is not for use in individuals under 18. Reviralis is not an antiviral, and no source shows it helps with cold sores. Talk with a pediatrician before a teenager takes any supplement.
Who wrote this07
Written and reviewed by
Pages built from the label, the order page and linked NIH, FDA, FTC, Mayo Clinic and peer-reviewed sources.
Last updated . Read our editorial standards and how we check reviews. This website is the information site for a USA Authorized Reviralis Retailer. It is not the manufacturer or the distributor named on the label. We earn money when you buy through our order links.
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