Once and for all, how do you get cold sores?

Stress is a common trigger for recurrent cold sores. Sunshine exposure also may lead to cold sores in many people who have had them before.

My husband frequently gets cold sores. Most of the time, it seems they are due to stress. We’ve been together for two years. I’ve never had cold sores, and I’d like to avoid ever getting them.

I always assumed we should just avoid kissing until the cold sore is gone, but I recently heard that even touching can spread the virus as long as it’s visible. Is this true? Also, are there things he can do to keep from getting cold sores so often?