Herpes warning as cold weather sweeps UK, creating dry and cracked sores

dailyrecord.co.uk:

As the temperature continues to plummet across the UK, the winter weather can dry out our skin and cause patches of soreness and tender blotches.The cold weather can also lead to a higher risk of herpes, according to Abbas Kanani, a pharmacist at Chemist Click.

Due to the cold and frosty weather in the country right now, as well as blustery winds, your skin and lips can dry out easier, making them more vulnerable to a blister outbreak.The expert said: "Cold sores are caused by certain strains of the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and changes in temperature and air moisture can play havoc with the body's ability to keep the virus from producing blisters.""These small blisters are sometimes referred to as fever sores, and appear in or around the lips and mouth.

They are usually tender, painful, and tingly, and occasionally develop on the face or tongue. Each outbreak lasts between two to three weeks," the pharmacists added.The herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) is more commonly referred to as oral herpes, as it causes cold sores to form around the mouth.

Most people do not experience symptoms regularly, with flare ups commonly occurring when the immune system is low.The pharmacist explains the symptoms here, saying: "The sores often start with a tingling, itching or burning sensation around your mouth.