Herpes Simplex Infections
Alternate Names : Fever Blister, COLD Sore
Herpes simplex infections are caused by a herpes simplex virus. This virus
is most likely to attack the skin and nervous system. The infection is temporary, usually
lasting 1 to 3 weeks. It causes small, irritating, and often painful blisters on the skin
and mucous membranes. These blisters become fluid-filled and eventually crust over
as healing starts. They are most often found on or around the mouth and nose, the eyes, and in the
genital region.
What is going on in the body?
Humans are the only known source of herpes simplex viruses. The
infection is spread by close physical contact and can be passed from mother to infant
during pregnancy or childbirth. The infection is chronic and can reactivate throughout life.
This type of infection is caused by two types of herpes simplex virus.
Herpes simplex virus-1, also called HSV-1, is an infection that tends to appear in the
facial area, most often around the nose and mouth. Herpes simplex virus-2, also called
HSV-2, tends to appear in the genital region. HSV-2 infections are usually
spread sexually. Symptoms of infection with HSV include burning, itching, tingling, and
pain at the site of infection, along with blisters filled with fluid. The affected individual may also have a low
fever and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.
Most people first get HSV-1 during childhood. It causes blisters around the
mouth and nose. Although the infection clears up within 2 to 3 weeks, the inactive virus
remains in the body forever. Reactivation of HSV-1 later in life often causes cold sores in
the same areas.
Adults or young adults generally contract HSV-2 through sexual contact.
HSV-2 causes painful ulcers in the genital region. Sometimes HSV-2 infection is
associated with mild cases of meningitis,
which is an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. For both HSV-1 and HSV-2,
reactivation takes the form of single ulcers at the site of the original infection.
The eyes can also be a site of HSV infection. Eye infections can vary in
severity. The person should get treatment for them as soon as possible to avoid complications. An HSV
infection can also occur on the finger. This is called a herpetic whitlow, and it often
results from touching an ulcer at some other site.
Infants can acquire HSV-1 or HSV-2 from their mothers during pregnancy or
childbirth. This usually happens when the mother has HSV for the first time.
HSV infection in newborn babies is a serious matter. It can result in the
death of the infant or brain damage even when the infant is treated appropriately.
Infection in someone with a weakened or damaged immune system can also be
severe and may require prolonged treatment.
Many outbreaks occur without any obvious reason. However, the following
factors may trigger a recurrence:
dental work
emotional stress
exposure to sunlight
fatigue
an upper respiratory infection, such as a cold or flu
What are the causes and risks of the infection?
Causes of this infection include:
being born to a mother who has a first-time HSV infection
close contact with an infected person
People in the following categories may be more at risk for herpes simplex infection:
people undergoing radiation therapy
or chemotherapy
people with cancer or other debilitating diseases
people with HIV or other immunodeficiency disorders
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