What are the key symptoms of a herpes skin rash. How can you identify herpes bumps on the body. What are the most effective treatments for herpes outbreaks. How does herpes differ from other similar skin conditions.

Understanding Herpes Simplex Virus and Its Impact on the Skin

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common viral infection that can cause distinctive skin rashes and sores. There are two main types of HSV that affect humans:

• HSV-1: Typically causes oral herpes, affecting the mouth and face area
• HSV-2: Usually associated with genital herpes, impacting the genital region

While these viruses have preferred sites of infection, both can potentially cause outbreaks in various areas of the body. HSV enters the body through mucous membranes or small breaks in the skin, establishing a lifelong infection in nerve cells.

How Does Herpes Spread?

HSV-1 primarily spreads through oral contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils. HSV-2 is typically transmitted through sexual contact. However, cross-infection can occur, leading to genital herpes caused by HSV-1 or oral herpes from HSV-2.

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Herpes Skin Rash

Identifying a herpes outbreak early can help manage symptoms and reduce transmission risk. The typical progression of a herpes skin rash includes:

1. Prodromal stage: Tingling, burning, or itching sensation in the affected area
2. Appearance of small, fluid-filled blisters clustered together
3. Blisters breaking open, releasing clear fluid
4. Formation of painful, shallow ulcers
5. Crusting and scabbing of the sores
6. Healing of the lesions without scarring

The duration of an outbreak can vary, typically lasting 7-10 days for recurrent episodes. Initial outbreaks may be more severe and prolonged, often accompanied by systemic symptoms.

Additional Symptoms During Primary Outbreaks

First-time herpes infections may cause more widespread symptoms, including:

• Fever and body aches
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Headache and fatigue
• Painful urination (for genital herpes)

Differentiating Herpes from Other Skin Conditions

Several skin conditions can present with symptoms similar to herpes, making accurate diagnosis crucial. Here are some conditions that may be mistaken for herpes:

Contact Dermatitis

This inflammatory skin reaction occurs when the skin comes into contact with irritants or allergens. Unlike herpes, contact dermatitis:

• Causes redness, itching, and sometimes blistering in the affected area
• Does not follow a specific outbreak pattern
• Improves when the irritant is removed

Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

Caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, shingles can be distinguished from herpes simplex by:

• A unilateral rash following a specific dermatome
• Severe burning or tingling pain preceding the rash
• Typically affecting older adults or those with weakened immune systems

Scabies

This parasitic skin infestation differs from herpes in several ways:

• Causes intense itching, especially at night
• Presents with small, red, raised bumps and burrow-like lines
• Commonly affects skin folds and areas between fingers

Diagnosing Herpes Skin Rashes

Accurate diagnosis of herpes is essential for proper treatment and management. Healthcare providers may use the following methods to confirm a herpes infection:

• Visual examination of the affected area
• Viral culture from a swab of an active lesion
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test to detect viral DNA
• Blood tests to check for HSV antibodies

Early diagnosis can help initiate prompt treatment and reduce the risk of complications or transmission to others.

Treatment Options for Herpes Outbreaks

While there is no cure for herpes, several treatment options can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks:

Antiviral Medications

Prescription antiviral drugs are the primary treatment for herpes outbreaks. Common options include:

• Acyclovir
• Valacyclovir
• Famciclovir

These medications can be used to treat active outbreaks or as suppressive therapy to prevent recurrences.

Topical Treatments

Over-the-counter and prescription topical treatments can help alleviate symptoms:

• Docosanol cream
• Benzyl alcohol lotion
• Lidocaine gel for pain relief

Home Remedies and Self-Care

Several self-care measures can complement medical treatments:

• Keeping the affected area clean and dry
• Applying cool compresses to soothe irritation
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing to prevent friction
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers for discomfort

Prevention Strategies for Herpes Transmission

Preventing the spread of herpes is crucial for both infected individuals and their partners. Key prevention strategies include:

• Avoiding physical contact during active outbreaks
• Using barrier methods during sexual activity
• Practicing good hygiene, especially hand washing
• Avoiding sharing personal items like towels or lip balms
• Considering suppressive antiviral therapy to reduce asymptomatic shedding

Open communication with sexual partners about herpes status is essential for informed decision-making and risk reduction.

Living with Herpes: Emotional and Psychological Aspects

A herpes diagnosis can have significant emotional and psychological impacts. Common reactions may include:

• Feelings of shame or embarrassment
• Anxiety about future outbreaks or transmission
• Concerns about disclosure to partners
• Impact on self-esteem and body image

Coping strategies and support can help individuals manage these challenges:

• Seeking counseling or joining support groups
• Educating oneself about the condition
• Practicing stress reduction techniques
• Maintaining overall health through diet and exercise

Remember that herpes is a common condition that does not define an individual’s worth or ability to have healthy relationships.

Advances in Herpes Research and Future Treatment Possibilities

Ongoing research in the field of herpes treatment and prevention offers hope for improved management and potential cures. Some areas of focus include:

• Development of therapeutic vaccines to boost immune response
• Gene editing techniques to eliminate latent virus from nerve cells
• Novel antiviral compounds with improved efficacy and fewer side effects
• Immunomodulatory therapies to enhance the body’s natural defenses

While these advancements are promising, it’s important to note that bringing new treatments to market can take many years of research and clinical trials.

Participating in Clinical Trials

Individuals with herpes may consider participating in clinical trials to access cutting-edge treatments and contribute to scientific knowledge. However, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and benefits before enrolling in any study.

Herpes and Pregnancy: Special Considerations

Pregnant women with herpes require special attention due to the risk of neonatal herpes, a potentially severe condition if the virus is transmitted to the baby during childbirth. Key considerations include:

• Importance of disclosing herpes status to healthcare providers
• Antiviral suppression therapy during pregnancy to reduce outbreak risk
• Possible cesarean delivery if active lesions are present at the time of labor
• Monitoring for signs of outbreak as the due date approaches

With proper management and precautions, the risk of neonatal herpes can be significantly reduced.

Herpes in Immunocompromised Individuals

People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, may experience more frequent and severe herpes outbreaks. Special considerations for this population include:

• Higher doses or longer courses of antiviral medications
• More vigilant monitoring for complications
• Potential for atypical presentations of herpes infections
• Increased risk of drug-resistant herpes strains

Close collaboration between infectious disease specialists and primary care providers is essential for optimal management in these cases.

The Role of Stress and Lifestyle Factors in Herpes Outbreaks

Various factors can influence the frequency and severity of herpes outbreaks. Understanding and managing these triggers can help reduce recurrences:

Stress Management

Stress is a well-known trigger for herpes outbreaks. Effective stress reduction techniques include:

• Mindfulness meditation
• Regular exercise
• Adequate sleep
• Time management and prioritization

Diet and Nutrition

While no specific diet has been proven to prevent herpes outbreaks, maintaining overall health through nutrition can support immune function:

• Balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Adequate hydration
• Limiting processed foods and excess sugar
• Considering supplements like lysine (under medical supervision)

Sun Protection

For individuals prone to oral herpes, sun exposure can trigger outbreaks. Preventive measures include:

• Using broad-spectrum sunscreen on the lips and face
• Wearing protective clothing and hats
• Avoiding peak sun hours when possible

By identifying and managing personal triggers, individuals with herpes can often reduce the frequency and impact of outbreaks on their daily lives.

Herpes and Sexual Health: Navigating Relationships and Intimacy

A herpes diagnosis can significantly impact an individual’s approach to relationships and sexual health. Key aspects to consider include:

Disclosure to Partners

Telling a partner about a herpes diagnosis can be challenging but is an important aspect of building trust and ensuring informed consent. Tips for disclosure include:

• Choosing an appropriate time and place for the conversation
• Being prepared with accurate information about transmission risks
• Allowing the partner time to process the information
• Being open to answering questions and addressing concerns

Safe Sexual Practices

Individuals with herpes can still enjoy healthy sex lives by adopting safer sex practices:

• Consistent use of barrier methods (condoms, dental dams)
• Avoiding sexual contact during outbreaks
• Considering suppressive antiviral therapy to reduce transmission risk
• Regular testing for other sexually transmitted infections

Emotional Intimacy

Building emotional intimacy can help partners navigate the challenges of herpes in a relationship:

• Open and honest communication about fears and concerns
• Educating each other about herpes and its management
• Focusing on non-sexual forms of intimacy during outbreaks
• Seeking couples counseling if needed to address relationship impacts

Remember that many couples successfully navigate relationships where one or both partners have herpes, and a diagnosis does not preclude a fulfilling romantic and sexual life.

The Global Impact of Herpes: Prevalence and Public Health Initiatives

Herpes simplex virus infections are prevalent worldwide, with significant variations in regional distribution and impact. Understanding the global picture can provide context for individual experiences and highlight the importance of public health efforts.

Worldwide Prevalence

Estimates suggest that a large proportion of the global population is infected with HSV-1 or HSV-2:

• HSV-1: Approximately 3.7 billion people under age 50 (67% of the population)
• HSV-2: About 491 million people aged 15-49 (13% of the population)

These numbers underscore the commonality of herpes infections and the need for destigmatization efforts.

Public Health Initiatives

Various organizations and governments are working to address the public health challenges posed by herpes:

• Education campaigns to increase awareness and reduce stigma
• Integration of herpes screening into routine sexual health check-ups
• Research funding for vaccine development and improved treatments
• Programs to prevent mother-to-child transmission during childbirth

Economic Impact

The global burden of herpes extends beyond health concerns to economic considerations:

• Direct medical costs for treatment and management
• Indirect costs due to productivity loss during outbreaks
• Research and development expenses for new therapies

Understanding the widespread nature of herpes can help individuals contextualize their own experiences and recognize the shared nature of this health challenge.

Herpes skin rash: Symptoms, identification, and treatment

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Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) can lead to a skin rash. Early signs include burning and tingling, after which sores appear that can turn into blisters or pustules. Treatment with antiviral drugs may shorten the healing time.

A herpes rash usually develops on the genitals or around the mouth, but it can occur nearly anywhere on the body.

There are two types of HSV that can cause a skin rash in different areas: HSV-1 and HSV-2.

HSV-1 typically causes orolabial herpes. It spreads in the saliva and tends to affect the area around the mouth and nose.

HSV-2 typically causes genital herpes and usually spreads through sexual contact. The rash appears around the genitals. Sometimes, it is also responsible for orolabial herpes.

This article will explain the symptoms of a herpes skin rash and explore its causes and treatments. It will also examine some other possible causes of skin complaints that may look similar to herpes.

Share on PinterestHerpes skin rashes are common around the mouth but can appear almost anywhere on the body.
Image credit: Jojo, 2006

Herpes causes small sores to appear on the skin. These sores usually develop around the mouth and nose, but they can appear nearly anywhere on the body, including the fingers. Where the rash appears will depend on where and how the person contracted the infection.

The first symptom of a herpes outbreak tends to be a tingling, burning, or itching sensation in the affected area. This initial symptom might occur a day or so before the sores appear.

The sores can be tender, painful, and tingly. They tend to look like clusters of small, fluid filled blisters that become pustules. For a few days to a week, they will break open, ooze fluid, and form a crust before healing over. The rash typically lasts for around 7–10 days.

The first time a rash appears, it may last for different lengths of time depending on the type of herpes. For example, oral herpes symptoms tend to clear up in 2–3 weeks, while genital herpes symptoms usually clear up in 2–6 weeks.

When someone experiences a herpes outbreak for the first time, they may also experience some or all of the following symptoms:

• fever
• swollen, red gums
• swollen lymph glands

Once the virus is inside the body, it invades the nerves that supply the area of the skin it affects and stays there for life. There is currently no cure for this virus, and it tends to reactivate and cause symptoms every so often.

The first outbreak is usually the worst. Although the symptoms of the virus do tend to come back every so often throughout the rest of a person’s life, they are not typically as severe on subsequent occasions.

Learn more about what herpes looks like here.

Herpes rashes tend to look like clusters of small, fluid filled blisters on a small area of the body.

Some other skin conditions that may resemble herpes include:

Contact dermatitis

Having an allergic reaction to an irritant can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Common irritants include antibiotic creams, cosmetics, shampoos, and perfumes. In infants, contact dermatitis may develop in the diaper area.

Contact dermatitis can cause flushing, swelling, and even blistering in the area it affects.

Shingles

Share on PinterestA person with shingles may experience a rash of fluid filled blisters.

Shingles causes a rash of blisters to occur on the skin. The same virus that causes chickenpox (the varicella-zoster virus) causes shingles.

The first symptom of shingles tends to be a severe burning or tingling pain on one side of the body. A rash of fluid filled blisters follows a few days to a week later.

These blisters tend to appear in one area of the body, most commonly one side of the trunk, near the waistline. They may be tender to the touch or painful.

The condition usually clears up within 3–5 weeks.

Scabies

An infestation of a microscopic parasite known as the human itch mite, or Sarcoptes scabiei, is what causes scabies.

The mite will burrow into the skin to lay its eggs and deposits its feces. Its presence causes an extremely itchy rash that resembles little pimples, creating flushed, scaly areas on the skin.

Doctors use a class of drugs called scabicides to treat these infestations. These drugs are only available with a prescription.

There are two types of HSV that cause herpes. Although these types are closely related and both spread through bodily fluids and human contact, they transmit in different ways.

The virus does not need to be causing any symptoms for it to spread to another person.

HSV-1, or oral herpes

Most carriers of HSV-1 contracted it when they were infants or children. It can spread through:

• having skin-to-skin contact with someone who has the virus
• kissing
• sharing items such as lip balm, tableware, or toothbrushes

HSV-2, or genital herpes

Sexual contact tends to be how HSV-2 spreads. HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes, and it can spread in saliva during oral sex. HSV-2 can also pass to an infant during childbirth.

Both forms of the virus enter the nerve cells of the body, where they will remain for life. The virus tends to lie dormant, or asleep, in the cells until something activates it and causes an outbreak of symptoms.

Factors that can lead to an outbreak include:

• emotional stress
• illness
• fever
• exposure to the sun
• menstruation
• surgery

There is currently no cure for herpes, but the sores will usually clear up on their own within a few weeks.

Treatments that will shorten the duration of the outbreak and ease the symptoms are available.

If a person experiences frequent outbreaks, their doctor may recommend taking a pill every day as a means of prevention. This treatment is known as prophylaxis.

Antiviral creams or ointments can relieve the burning, itching, or tingling. Antiviral pills can help speed up the healing process. Both types of medication tend to contain the same active ingredients. They include:

• acyclovir
• famciclovir
• valacyclovir

People can get herpes medication from a doctor or pharmacist. Over-the-counter options are also available online.

Share on PinterestIf a person with a weakened immune system experiences a herpes skin rash, they should speak to their doctor.

For otherwise healthy people, a herpes skin rash is not usually anything to worry about. The sores can be painful and uncomfortable, but they typically go away by themselves. Medications to treat them are available from drugstores.

The virus can cause complications in some people. Anyone with a long-term health condition or weakened immune system who thinks that they may have herpes should speak to their doctor.

People with cancer, HIV, or AIDS and anyone who has recently had an organ transplant should seek urgent medical attention if they think that they may have herpes.

Anyone who suspects that something other than herpes — such as dermatitis, shingles, or scabies — is causing their rash can talk to their doctor about diagnosis.

Herpes is a common virus that can cause a rash of blistering sores on the skin. These tend to develop around the mouth or genitals but can appear almost anywhere on the body.

There is currently no cure for the virus, and carriers tend to experience symptom outbreaks at various times throughout their life.

The clusters of fluid filled blisters may be painful, but they are usually harmless. Antiviral treatments that can help ease the symptoms and shorten the duration of an outbreak are available in many drugstores.

Herpes skin rash: Symptoms, identification, and treatment

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) can lead to a skin rash. Early signs include burning and tingling, after which sores appear that can turn into blisters or pustules. Treatment with antiviral drugs may shorten the healing time.

A herpes rash usually develops on the genitals or around the mouth, but it can occur nearly anywhere on the body.

There are two types of HSV that can cause a skin rash in different areas: HSV-1 and HSV-2.

HSV-1 typically causes orolabial herpes. It spreads in the saliva and tends to affect the area around the mouth and nose.

HSV-2 typically causes genital herpes and usually spreads through sexual contact. The rash appears around the genitals. Sometimes, it is also responsible for orolabial herpes.

This article will explain the symptoms of a herpes skin rash and explore its causes and treatments. It will also examine some other possible causes of skin complaints that may look similar to herpes.

Share on PinterestHerpes skin rashes are common around the mouth but can appear almost anywhere on the body.
Image credit: Jojo, 2006

Herpes causes small sores to appear on the skin. These sores usually develop around the mouth and nose, but they can appear nearly anywhere on the body, including the fingers. Where the rash appears will depend on where and how the person contracted the infection.

The first symptom of a herpes outbreak tends to be a tingling, burning, or itching sensation in the affected area. This initial symptom might occur a day or so before the sores appear.

The sores can be tender, painful, and tingly. They tend to look like clusters of small, fluid filled blisters that become pustules. For a few days to a week, they will break open, ooze fluid, and form a crust before healing over. The rash typically lasts for around 7–10 days.

The first time a rash appears, it may last for different lengths of time depending on the type of herpes. For example, oral herpes symptoms tend to clear up in 2–3 weeks, while genital herpes symptoms usually clear up in 2–6 weeks.

When someone experiences a herpes outbreak for the first time, they may also experience some or all of the following symptoms:

• fever
• swollen, red gums
• swollen lymph glands

Once the virus is inside the body, it invades the nerves that supply the area of the skin it affects and stays there for life. There is currently no cure for this virus, and it tends to reactivate and cause symptoms every so often.

The first outbreak is usually the worst. Although the symptoms of the virus do tend to come back every so often throughout the rest of a person’s life, they are not typically as severe on subsequent occasions.

Learn more about what herpes looks like here.

Herpes rashes tend to look like clusters of small, fluid filled blisters on a small area of the body.

Some other skin conditions that may resemble herpes include:

Contact dermatitis

Having an allergic reaction to an irritant can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Common irritants include antibiotic creams, cosmetics, shampoos, and perfumes. In infants, contact dermatitis may develop in the diaper area.

Contact dermatitis can cause flushing, swelling, and even blistering in the area it affects.

Shingles

Share on PinterestA person with shingles may experience a rash of fluid filled blisters.

Shingles causes a rash of blisters to occur on the skin. The same virus that causes chickenpox (the varicella-zoster virus) causes shingles.

The first symptom of shingles tends to be a severe burning or tingling pain on one side of the body. A rash of fluid filled blisters follows a few days to a week later.

These blisters tend to appear in one area of the body, most commonly one side of the trunk, near the waistline. They may be tender to the touch or painful.

The condition usually clears up within 3–5 weeks.

Scabies

An infestation of a microscopic parasite known as the human itch mite, or Sarcoptes scabiei, is what causes scabies.

The mite will burrow into the skin to lay its eggs and deposits its feces. Its presence causes an extremely itchy rash that resembles little pimples, creating flushed, scaly areas on the skin.

Doctors use a class of drugs called scabicides to treat these infestations. These drugs are only available with a prescription.

There are two types of HSV that cause herpes. Although these types are closely related and both spread through bodily fluids and human contact, they transmit in different ways.

The virus does not need to be causing any symptoms for it to spread to another person.

HSV-1, or oral herpes

Most carriers of HSV-1 contracted it when they were infants or children. It can spread through:

• having skin-to-skin contact with someone who has the virus
• kissing
• sharing items such as lip balm, tableware, or toothbrushes

HSV-2, or genital herpes

Sexual contact tends to be how HSV-2 spreads. HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes, and it can spread in saliva during oral sex. HSV-2 can also pass to an infant during childbirth.

Both forms of the virus enter the nerve cells of the body, where they will remain for life. The virus tends to lie dormant, or asleep, in the cells until something activates it and causes an outbreak of symptoms.

Factors that can lead to an outbreak include:

• emotional stress
• illness
• fever
• exposure to the sun
• menstruation
• surgery

There is currently no cure for herpes, but the sores will usually clear up on their own within a few weeks.

Treatments that will shorten the duration of the outbreak and ease the symptoms are available.

If a person experiences frequent outbreaks, their doctor may recommend taking a pill every day as a means of prevention. This treatment is known as prophylaxis.

Antiviral creams or ointments can relieve the burning, itching, or tingling. Antiviral pills can help speed up the healing process. Both types of medication tend to contain the same active ingredients. They include:

• acyclovir
• famciclovir
• valacyclovir

People can get herpes medication from a doctor or pharmacist. Over-the-counter options are also available online.

Share on PinterestIf a person with a weakened immune system experiences a herpes skin rash, they should speak to their doctor.

For otherwise healthy people, a herpes skin rash is not usually anything to worry about. The sores can be painful and uncomfortable, but they typically go away by themselves. Medications to treat them are available from drugstores.

The virus can cause complications in some people. Anyone with a long-term health condition or weakened immune system who thinks that they may have herpes should speak to their doctor.

People with cancer, HIV, or AIDS and anyone who has recently had an organ transplant should seek urgent medical attention if they think that they may have herpes.

Anyone who suspects that something other than herpes — such as dermatitis, shingles, or scabies — is causing their rash can talk to their doctor about diagnosis.

Herpes is a common virus that can cause a rash of blistering sores on the skin. These tend to develop around the mouth or genitals but can appear almost anywhere on the body.

There is currently no cure for the virus, and carriers tend to experience symptom outbreaks at various times throughout their life.

The clusters of fluid filled blisters may be painful, but they are usually harmless. Antiviral treatments that can help ease the symptoms and shorten the duration of an outbreak are available in many drugstores.

Herpes in a child – causes, symptoms of the disease, diagnosis and methods of treatment on the face and body

Herpes in a child is essentially a chronic recurrent infection caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) virions. The virus affects mainly integumentary tissues and nerve ganglia (cells).

The main route of infection is contact, the release of the virus on the damaged surface of the skin and mucous tissues. In addition to the main route, the virus can be realized by airborne dust and droplets, transmitted transplacentally and intranatally (from mother to child). Viruses that have entered the body are able to remain in an inert state for a long time in nerve cells and “wake up” during a period of weakening of the immune defense, provoking an infectious relapse.

Primary herpes in a child on the face and other areas often has a latent course. The disease appears later. The acute form of infection is diagnosed in only 20% of children infected with the virus. At the same time, in order to draw up an intensive care plan, it is important to know what type of virus provoked the infection.

Classification

Herpes infection is classified according to signs of predominant tissue damage, the nature of the disease and the type of rash.

8 types of herpesvirus affect children, but 7 and 8 are not well understood:

Type	Features of manifestation
HSV type 1 (labial herpes)	Manifested by herpes on the lips of a child in the form of blisters. Can provoke the development of herpetic stomatitis and encephalitis.
Type 2	Affects with a rash on the genitals (genital herpes).
Type 3	The causative agent of chickenpox and recurrent herpes zoster.
Type 4 (Epstein-Barr virus)	Causes the development of malignant lymphoma and infectious mononucleosis – an acute viral pathology accompanied by fever, damage to the respiratory system, spleen, liver, lymph nodes and blood.
Type 5 (cetomegalovirus)	Affects the respiratory, nervous and urinary systems, intestines, brain and eyes.
Type 6	It mainly affects young children, manifesting itself as a viral exanthema – rashes similar to rubella.

According to the development of the disease, there are: acquired herpes, primary, recurrent and congenital.

According to the form of infectious prevalence, 4 stages of development are distinguished:

1. latent – carriage without manifestation of specific symptoms;
2. localized – with a single lesion;
3. widespread – with the presence of 2 or more foci;
4. generalized – disseminated and visceral (with spread to internal organs).

Causes of the disease

BBVI can occur in children of any age. Immune protection against the virus is only in those babies whose mothers had herpes before the second trimester of pregnancy. At the age of six months, the child’s protective maternal antibodies to the virus disappear, which increases the risk of developing a primary infection caused by herpes virions.

Basically, the infection manifests itself as herpes on the lip of a child, causing pain and discomfort. In almost every child, after 4 years, the first type of virus can manifest itself regularly, signaling weak immunity. Many factors can provoke herpes in a child:

• high temperature;
• cold infections;
• exacerbation of chronic pathologies;
• skin wounds;
• stress conditions and hypovitaminosis;
• active sunlight;
• hypothermia;
• excessive dryness of mucous membranes.

Symptoms and clinical signs

Clinic of the disease and symptoms depend on the localization of the herpes virus.

• When the skin is affected, the process is usually localized in the region of the lips and wings of the nose, manifesting itself as subjective sensations of itching and burning. Soon, the affected area thickens, vesicles (vesicles) appear, filled with gradually cloudy exudate. After opening the bubbles, small foci of erosion remain, covered with a crust.

  Healing does not leave marks. Quite often, children prematurely peel off the crusts – this is a direct path for a bacterial pathogen and the development of suppurative processes. The clinic of the disease may be accompanied by an increase and soreness of regional lymph nodes. Additional symptoms can be observed only against the background of concomitant diseases.

• Herpes on the mucous tissues of the mouth provokes acute or recurrent stomatitis, accompanied by general signs of intoxication and fever.

  Groups of small bubble rashes form on the oral mucosa. After their opening, painful, long-term healing (up to 2 weeks) erosions remain. Sometimes the consequences of GI are manifested by aphthous stomatitis with the formation of single, very painful aphthae that form ulcers. This form of infection is characterized by a tendency to relapse.

• Clinic of herpetic lesion according to the type of acute RVI proceeds without rashes. Sometimes a blistering rash affects the tonsils and the back of the throat.
• Manifestations of ophthalmic herpes are characterized by vesicular lesions of the cornea, followed by the formation of ulcers, which reduces its sensitivity and causes visual impairment. The recurrent process can cause persistent clouding of the cornea and lead to blindness.
• When the nervous system is affected, the clinic of the disease is manifested by severe intoxication, high fever, convulsive symptoms, paresis or persistent paralysis, loss of consciousness may be noted.
• Signs of herpes zoster are manifested by general malaise, headaches, dyspeptic and intoxication symptoms, itching and burning in the projection of the nerve branches. In the area of ​​the vesicles, there is intense paroxysmal pain and burning. There may be violations of sensitivity in the area of ​​​​innervation of the affected nerve, paresis of the urinary sphincter, muscles of the wall of the peritoneum and extremities, facial and oculomotor nerves.

Newborns and children with severe immunodeficiency may develop generalized forms of HI with signs of extensive damage to the skin, mucous tissues and internal organs with signs of intoxication and high fever.

Methods for diagnosing and treating herpes in a child

Despite the rather typical symptoms, a standard package of studies is provided to confirm the diagnosis, including:

• laboratory blood tests – general and biochemical tests;
• ELISA (enzymatic immunoassay) for the detection of antibodies;
• study of biomaterial (cerebrospinal fluid, blood, vesicular exudate) by PCR, which allows to detect and identify the virus at any stage of infection, even if there are no antibodies in the blood yet.

Treatment tactics are selected taking into account the individual characteristics of the child, the type of pathogen identified and the severity of clinical manifestations. There is no specific treatment for herpes. Once in the body, it remains in it for life. Therapy of the disease is symptomatic, aimed at alleviating the condition of the child, preventing the spread of infection and its generalization. Treatment includes prescribing:

• antiviral drugs that help stop the infectious process;
• symptomatic drugs – antipyretic, analgesic, antipruritic and decongestant;
• topical antiseptics – solutions, ointments, gels that can relieve pain and itching;
• preparations for the treatment of affected mucous tissues;
• sessions of physiotherapy (EHF, magnetotherapy, ultraviolet radiation, infrared irradiation).

Possible complications

If the disease is severe, complications may develop. With damage to the facial and trigeminal nerve, severe pain symptoms and paralysis can occur.