29 May 2023 Blackmores The Importance of Lysine for Cold Sore Control 29 May 2023 Share Share on LinkedIn Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Google+ Share on Pinterest News Cold sores are caused by variants of the highly contagious herpes simplex virus (HSV), which is estimated to infect 80-90% of people, lying dormant in nervous tissue until relapse is triggered by stress or immune dysfunction.1,2 Antiviral creams, ointments or single-dose tablets from the pharmacy are often used with a cold sore outbreak, when a tingling sensation or a raised sore or blister is first noticed. But what are the preventative options? How can we support our body’s immune system to avoid cold sores? × To continue reading this article, please Log In or Sign Up for access.