PROGNOSIS & KEY INFORMATION
PROGNOSIS
- Primary herpes labialis: resolves in 10-14 days
- Gingivostomatitis: resolves in 2-3 weeks
- Recurrent infections: typically 6 months after initial infection
- Contagious until lesions are scabbed over
KEY INFORMATION
- Avoid kissing children if HSV-positive during pregnancy
- Prophylactic antivirals may be considered for severe/frequent recurrences
- Over-the-counter medications are generally not recommended COMPLICATIONS
- Eczema herpeticum
- Corneal ulcerations
- Herpes keratoconjunctivitis
- Erythema multiform
- Pneumonia
- Encephalitis – Hepatic complications.