Getting cold sore, kissed 6month old on ear

[ManxRedRobin]

I woke up with what I thought was a scratched mouth corner (didn't look in mirror) but now at lunchtime I can see I am developing a cold sore, first in years. I have a 6month old baby and have kissed her on head and ear and have been playing together all morning - including with my water bottle :( feel really scared that I may have accidentally given her the virus.

I have sent partner to get a patch for cold sore and face mask to keep it covered. Anything else I can do? Internet advises that it's more likely to spread if I had kissed her mouth or lips, which I haven't done, but she has touched my water bottle mouthpiece when playing. Is it likely she'll get infected?

Understand it's much more serious in younger babies but still don't want her to get it so young :(

You will have passed antibodies on to your dc in pregnancy. It's unlikely she will get cold sores. The antibodies live for quite a while after birth. Try not to worry

Thank you so much for your positive reply. It's been a tough day feeling run down, stressed and with a developing cold sore to boot!

I had read my antibodies last up to 6months which is now... fingers crossed they've not completely waned. Thanks again

There's a reason cold sores (herpes) are normally on the lips or genitals, normal skin that is on most of our body is thicker and offers protection unless the skin is broken allowing the virus in. Don't kiss baby on mouth or near eyes, while sore is active don't kiss them at all. I don't think you need a mask, I've brought up 4 plus lots of contact with 6 GC and I've never passed it on despite getting regular outbreaks.

As previous poster said you have almost certainly passed on antibodies although I'm not sure how long they last.

Try not to worry, it is likely to be fine although cold sores are the bane of my life.

Thank you for your advice, really appreciate it. Sorry to hear you suffer from regular outbreaks.

I read on another thread that aviclor (sp?) antiviral tablets can shorten an outbreak so going to try and get hold of some too.

Yes they definitely help. If you take them soon enough they can stop an outbreak in its tracks. My GP won't prescribe them so I have to get them privately so I use them sparingly. I think some people take them every day but I find it is OK to just do it when I'm getting an outbreak.

You are probably a bit tired and run down which is when the pesky things take advantage.