I have a cold sore and am wondering if I can transfer the virus to my son while changing his diaper?
Yes it is possible for you to transfer the herpes simplex virus to your son, and not just while you’re changing his diaper, if your cold sore is in the proper stage for it. The Weeping stage is the most contagious phase. This phase is when the blisters rupture, the liquid inside these blisters contains millions of herpes simplex virus particles. Once the cold sore is a scab it is much less contagious but still a little contagious. If the virus makes contact with any sore your son has, or if it gets in and around his face it can cause an infection.
If you take precautions you and your son should be fine. Wash your hands before handling your son, and wash him if you think some of the virus may have got on him. Be especially careful during the weeping stage.
Your doctor will be able to give you the best advice as to how to avoid contaminating your son.
