Tips to Prevent and Treat Cold Sores This Winter

(StatePoint) Did you know that the cold sore virus is very common? In fact, eight out of 10 people have it. And, if you’ve ever had one, you already know that an outbreak can be painful and unpleasant. Itching, burning, tingling, and blisters are some of the symptoms associated with cold sores, and many people are especially susceptible to them during cold and flu season.

Blisters or sores usually appear when your body’s defenses are down -- when you are stressed, or your immune system is weak, making you especially vulnerable this time of year. There is no cure for cold sores, but you can tak...