My advice - How to neutralize the first symptoms of Herpes As soon as you feel localized pain and sense that the herpes virus is about to appear in the mouth or genital area, you need to act quickly. This method is effective only at the early stages, but it truly helps! Make sure to buy zinc tablets in advance, whether it's zinc citrate or another form of zinc—it doesn't matter which type you choose. What’s crucial is that during the initial phase of the virus, you take three times the recommended dose. You should notice results within 12 hours, and if you continue taking zinc for three days, the symptoms of the herpes virus—such as rashes, cold sores, and other side effects—will disappear. Unfortunately, this relief is only temporary, but one thing is clear: the herpes virus doesn't like zinc!