Recurrent herpes labialis, also known as oral herpes, is an infection of the mouth area caused by the herpes simplex virus. It’s a common and contagious infection that spreads easily.
The infection causes blisters and sores on the lips, mouth, tongue or gums. After an initial infection, the virus stays dormant inside the nerve cells of the face. Later on in life, the virus can reactivate and result in more sores. The herpes is recurrent when this happens. These ar usually called cold sores or fever blisters.