Herpes Simplex
Herpes simplex is an acute infection caused by the Herpesvirus hominis ( HVH). Though, vesicular lesions may be apparent on the skin and mucous membranes and also in the eyes, CNS and systemic manifestations, about 85% of infections are subclinical.
Herpes simplex infection manifests clinically as following:
1. Acute herpetic gingivo-stomatitis
– also known as ulcerative stomatitis and Vincent’s stomatitis
– usually in the buccal mucosa and common in children and or persons whose resistance are low and who received inadequate care
– the disease may start with irritability and poor appetite and then lesions appear in the mouth with vesicles on the edges and dorsum of the tongue, inner cheeks and lips. These vesicles may burst and may have secondary bacterial infection that may result to foul purulent exudates
2. Herpes Genitalis
– this disease is more found in the adult population
– as in the mouth, the lesions are characterized by vesicles very much like eczema which may coalesce and get secondary bacterial infection
3. Eye lesions
– infections on the eyes may have congestion and swelling of the conjunctivae, later vesicles and ulcers with exudates may appear on the cornea
4. Systemic infection in the newborn
– this is an acute generalized infection among the neonates which is difficult to differentiate from sepsis neonatorum
– clinically, this will present as sepsis,
Failure to suck
Difficulty of respiration
Listlessness
Pallor
Cyanosis
Failure to thrive
– the disease may take about 1-2 weeks and the infant is on guarded situation however, if properly managed prognosis is favorable
To avoid getting infections especially this season with too much stress, lack of and lack of exercise, it is utmost importance to give priority to our health.
Stay happy, stay blessed and stay protected! Have a merry Christmas everyone!