If i have a cold sore, can i infect my own genitals with the hsv1 virus? and if so, does it cause flu-like symptoms?

No.: Usually don't. Genital herpes is caused by hsv-2, a different type of hsv. But there is a small chance that oral herpes can cause genital herpes(10~20% of genital herpes would be caused by hsv-1), and symptoms and signs would be far less severe. No, it's unlikely that it would cause flu-like symptoms.

2 types of viruses.: Hsv has 2 types -type i& ii. Type i associated commonly with cold sore -herpes labilialis(lips) around mouth and type ii commonly asso. With genital herp though vice verse virus can cause the lesions .Contamination , by touching the cold sore can cause genital herp., reported in immunocompromised peo. Like transplant recipients, those on steroids, hiv. Orogenital sex can precipitate c.Sore to cause.