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HERPES

Information Leaflet

What is Herpes?

Herpes is a common viral infection caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV).

There are 2 virus types: HSV-1 and HSV-2.

What illness or disease is caused by HSV?

Many people who acquire HSV have no symptoms at all. Others develop painful lesions and ulcers. These can be found around the mouth (‘cold sore’) or in the genital area (‘genital herpes’). Occasionally HSV may cause an eye infection or infect broken skin (‘herpetic whitlow’ and ‘eczema herpeticum’). Very rarely HSV may cause serious life-threatening disease. This may occur if a newborn baby comes into contact with HSV.

How is HSV spread?

HSV is spread from person to person. Most commonly HSV is spread via kissing; it can also be spread through sexual contact. Once acquired, the virus remains in the body for life and will reactivate from time to time. Many people have no symptoms at all and are unaware that they have HSV. For those people that develop symptoms, the first infection is usually the most severe and lasts the longest. Recurrent infections are usually less severe and improve quickly.

Is there any treatment for HSV?

Antiviral medication is available. This can be used topically (cream or ointment) or by tablet or suspension. These antivirals are not licensed for use in pregnancy. However, they are generally considered safe and are often used, especially during the second half of pregnancy. Treatment in pregnancy should be discussed with your Doctor.

Genital herpes and pregnancy

Genital herpes may be transmitted to your baby during labour. Please inform your Obstetrician, Midwife or Doctor if you have ever had genital herpes or if you develop genital herpes during your pregnancy. A plan will be put in place for you; this may include antiviral medication during the last few weeks of your pregnancy, type of your delivery and care of your baby.

Cold Sores and newborn baby

Cold sores are common. However, your newborn should not have physical contact with a cold sore. Any person with a cold sore should not kiss a baby until their lesion is fully healed. Also, practice hand washing or use an alcohol gel, to prevent accidental transmission of the virus on your hand to a baby. Consider using an antiviral cream to encourage healing of the cold sore. Further information:

Infection Prevention & Control TeamMarch 2016