HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS

HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS:

Also know as HSV, is an infection that causes herpes. It can occur in various parts of the body, most commonly on the genitals/mouth.The term herpes means to "creep"- which means easily spreading nature.

TYPES 

HSV 1: It causes oral herpes. This type can cause cold sores & fever blisters around the mouth & on the face. This spreads by contact with infected saliva.

HSV 2: It causes genital herpes. Said to be transmitted by sexual contact.

PATHOGENESIS:

Man is the only natural host to HSV, the virus is spread by contact, the usual site for the implantation is skin /mucous membrane.

Incubation period is around 3 to 7 days.

Local symptoms incluse- pain, itching, vaginal & uretheral dischrage & lymphadenopathy

HSV 1( Gingivostomatitis):

Oropharynx is the most commonly affected site. Usually it starts with a tingling

Tiny blisters show up & quickly break open, causing a painful sore which eventually scabs over time.

It is most common to haveout breaks 2 to 3 times a year.

Herpes is contagious, but its possible for one person in a family to have it , while the others dont.

Herpes is spread through direct skin to skin contact.

HSV 2 (GENITAL HERPES) :

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by HSV. This occurs in the absence of symptoms.

There is no cure  for genital herpes, but medications can ease symptoms& reduce the risk of infecting others.

Symptoms begin about 2 to 12 days after exposure to the virus

Babies born to infected mothers can be exposed to the virus during the birthing process. This may result in brain damage , blindness or death of the newborn.

CLINICAL FEATURES:

1. High temperature.

2.Malaise.

3.Cold sores around the mouth.

4. Red bisters on skin.

5.In most cases , ulcers will heal & the individual will not have any lasting scars.

 

TREATMENT:

1. There is no cure for herpes.

2. Medicines such as acyclovir & valaciclovir fights the herpes virus.

3. Avoid touching an active outbreak site, washing hands frequently.

4.If the medicines are being used to treat a repeat outbreak, they should be started as soon as you feel any tingling, burning or itching.