Is viral herpes severe?
I have developed rashes on my body, and the examination indicated it is viral. I would like to ask how serious this condition is and whether it is contagious.
Doctor's answer (1)
Viral herpes is mainly caused by two types of viruses: herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
HSV is divided into HSV-1 and HSV-2; the former commonly causes herpes around the lips, while the latter often leads to genital herpes. VZV causes chickenpox upon initial infection and may reactivate after latency as shingles.
Herpes simplex can cause significant discomfort to patients. However, in most cases, timely treatment with medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir can lead to gradual resolution and recovery. For individuals with normal immune function, viral herpes typically does not result in serious consequences and the condition can be effectively controlled with antiviral drug therapy.
In immunocompromised individuals, such as patients with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, or organ transplant recipients taking immunosuppressive agents, viral herpes may lead to more severe complications, such as herpetic keratitis, encephalitis, or widespread skin infections.
Once related symptoms appear, prompt medical attention should be sought, and standardized treatment should be followed as directed by a physician.
