First, I think your exposure does not present a risk. The skin of that area is thick and not very vulnerable to penetration by the virus. The sanitizing solution will probably help as well.
But let's step back a moment, and suggest that since close to 2/3 of the adult population has HSV 1 infection, you may also have it and not know it. Seventy percent of people who are HSV 1 positive report no symptoms, so that could also be you. If you are really worried about this, and you appear to be, you might consider being tested to see if you are already infected and don't know it.
Terri
You are most welcome.
Terri
Thank you so much for your feedback. Working with children always poses so many random acts throughout the day, and this was definitely one of them. I think more than anything it was just unexpected and, sorry, just gross. It's good to know "when to worry" if future situations pop up...but I definitely don't share chapstick/lipstick with the kids so I think I'll be ok :) Thank you for the peace of mind!
I think it is safe to assume you took care of it with sanitizer. It would likely take heavy kissing or receiving oral sex from someone with oral infection. I also don't recommend sharing lipsticks and lip moisturizers.
Terri
Also, I spent the night in the hospital with a friend, and I didn't have the chance to shower until this morning...would that have any bearing on the virus possibly staying on my person, or is it safe to assume I somewhat took care of it with the sanitizer?
Thank you for your response! I have been tested throughout the years, and have been negative for both types. Since my situation posed no health risk, what is a situation that would? My coworker that suggested the sanitizer in my hair said that all it takes is skin-to-skin contact. Would that be more towards romantic kissing or prolonged touching (like hugging cheek to cheek)? It's would be a good thing to know for the future, especially since I will be around these children and probably run into more cold sore exposures!