Lytic and lysogenic cycles
The lytic cycle results in the host cells death by lysis. In the case of a cold sore this is when the virus is most active and when the sore is visible on the lip. During the lytic cycle the virus is attacking many host cells which is what causes the sore. During the lysogenic cycle the viral DNA or RNA has connected itself to the host cells DNA. This is called the prophage. During the lysogenic cycle the virus is dormant and can lay dormant for long periods of time. There are several things that can cause the lysogenic cycle to turn into the lytic cycle such as stress, fatigue and the weekness of the immune system. When the Lytic cycle starts a soar will occur and come visible on the outside of the lip.
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