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Suggest Treatment For Herpes Simplex Infection In The Mouth
Question: I was diagnosed with herpes simplex in mouth yesterday. I forgot to ask if I could work. It said very contagise. I am a home health nurse and don't want to infect my people
Brief Answer:
Regarding labial herpes
Detailed Answer:
Hello. Thank you for writing to us
I am dr.kakkar (dermatologist).
I have gone through your query and i have noted your concern.
Herpes labialis is usually transmitted by direct contact e.g lip/ mouth kissing or oral sex. It is definitely more contagious during a clinical episode than at other times. Herpes is not transmitted by fomites or through hands. So it is usually not a risk to others. Anyways avoid sharing utensils like cup, glass, drinking water bottles, spoons etc. You may avoid work if you are working with immunocompromised patients or cancer patients or in an ICU setting as these patients can easily acquire infections and can have widespread/ systemic involvement. You may also take an antiviral e.g valacyclovir to hasten resolution. Labial herpes (cold sores) usually resolves in a week although it might recur again in future.
Regards
Regarding labial herpes
Detailed Answer:
Hello. Thank you for writing to us
I am dr.kakkar (dermatologist).
I have gone through your query and i have noted your concern.
Herpes labialis is usually transmitted by direct contact e.g lip/ mouth kissing or oral sex. It is definitely more contagious during a clinical episode than at other times. Herpes is not transmitted by fomites or through hands. So it is usually not a risk to others. Anyways avoid sharing utensils like cup, glass, drinking water bottles, spoons etc. You may avoid work if you are working with immunocompromised patients or cancer patients or in an ICU setting as these patients can easily acquire infections and can have widespread/ systemic involvement. You may also take an antiviral e.g valacyclovir to hasten resolution. Labial herpes (cold sores) usually resolves in a week although it might recur again in future.
Regards
Note: Consult a Sexual Diseases Specialist online for further follow up- Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Veerisetty Shyamkumar
Answered by
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