Yes, getting a cold sore once increases the likelihood of getting future outbreaks. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and once you are infected, the virus remains in your body for life. While many people may only experience one or a few outbreaks in their lifetime, others may have recurrent cold sores triggered by various factors like stress, illness, sun exposure, hormonal changes, or a weakened immune system.
