PSI Barbering Practice Exam

Which virus is known to cause recurring fever blisters or cold sores?

1. Herpes simplex 1

2. Herpes zoster

3. Influenza virus

4. Human papillomavirus

The correct answer is: Herpes simplex 1

The virus responsible for causing recurring fever blisters or cold sores is Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). This virus primarily infects the oral and facial regions, leading to the characteristic blisters that often recur due to triggers like stress, sun exposure, or illness. Once HSV-1 infects a person, it lies dormant in the nerve cells and can reactivate, causing the sores to appear again over time. In contrast, Herpes zoster is related to shingles and results from the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox. Influenza virus is responsible for the flu, a viral infection that affects the respiratory system, and is not related to cold sores. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with various conditions, including warts and certain cancers, but it does not cause cold sores. Thus, the unique characteristics and behavior of HSV-1 clearly establish it as the correct answer associated with recurring fever blisters or cold sores.