Herpes in children and newborns and methods of treatment

Herpes is one of the most common viruses among children, especially newborns and children with weak immunity. The development of herpes varies from one case to another; the child may recover completely, or complications may appear that lead to greater health problems. Therefore, parents should monitor their children's health to avoid worsening the condition. In this article, through the Dalili Medical website, we will discuss the topic of children's herpes, including its symptoms, treatment, and causes, in addition to tips to protect your child from infection with the virus.

What is children's herpes?

Children's herpes, also known as cold sores, is a type of virus known as herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). This virus causes a skin infection that usually appears around the mouth and lips, and sometimes around the eyes, in the form of small blisters filled with clear fluid, accompanied by itching and pain. It is also known as "oral herpes". In some cases, symptoms may appear on the genitals or hands and fingers. The virus is easily transmitted to children through kissing or touching an infected person, especially in newborns and those with weak immunity. Therefore, parents are advised to avoid kissing children, especially those under 6 months of age, because the virus may reach the brain or cornea of ​​the eye. Herpes can be transmitted from mother to child before, during or after birth, and is then known as "neonatal herpes simplex (NHSV)", a rare type that affects ten children out of every hundred thousand children according to statistics from the World Health Organization. This type can be fatal to newborns if not treated quickly, so pregnant women should avoid dealing with anyone infected, and if infected, they should consult a doctor immediately.

 Duration of treatment for herpes in children

The duration of treatment varies from one child to another depending on age, symptoms, health condition and location of infection. The duration of treatment for herpes in children usually takes from one to two weeks, and healing is usually complete after three weeks, as the blisters or vesicles begin to dry up and turn into crusts and then heal. These blisters often do not leave any scars or marks.

 Incubation period of herpes virus

The incubation period of herpes virus usually does not show any clear symptoms, but when the first symptoms appear, they are clear. The initial symptoms of the disease may appear anytime between two and four years, but years can pass without the disease appearing in some people.

 Is herpes transmitted during the incubation period?

It is very rare for the virus to be transmitted during the incubation period, because the virus takes a long time to appear, which makes it difficult to determine the moment when a person was infected with the virus.

**Transmission of oral herpes**

Oral herpes, also known as herpes simplex, is a common disease among children. This virus is transmitted through contact with an adult who is infected, through oral secretions or sores on the skin. Transmission often occurs through kissing or using personal items such as lip balm, toothbrushes, or eating utensils.

**Transmission of genital herpes**

The second type, genital or sexual herpes, is spread through sexual contact with another person who has the virus. It is transmitted by touching the sores around the genitals. Both types of herpes can also be transmitted from one area of ​​the body to another by rubbing the infected area and then touching other areas such as the eyes or lips.

**Is herpes in children contagious?**

Yes, herpes in children is a highly contagious virus, as it can be easily spread through direct contact with blisters and sores or the saliva of an infected person, in addition to sharing personal items.

**Is herpes in children contagious to adults?**

Yes, herpes in children can be contagious to adults through touch and direct contact with the infected person.

**Is herpes in children contagious to pregnant women?**

Yes, herpes can be transmitted from children to adults, including pregnant women. This poses a greater risk to the pregnant woman, as it may affect the fetus and lead to its birth with the herpes virus. Therefore, pregnant women are advised to stay away from anyone infected with herpes, and to inform the specialist doctor if they are exposed to infection or contact with an infected person, to take the necessary measures to protect the health of the mother and fetus.

**What are the prohibited foods for children with herpes?**

We advise mothers to avoid processed foods or foods that contain preservatives, in addition to frozen meals that require heating in the microwave, sweets and cereal products, as these foods may contribute to the spread of herpes infection and slow down the healing process, which increases the child's fatigue.

**Areas where herpes appears:**

- The mouth area and around it.

- The eye area.

- The genital areas.

- The fingers and toes area.

**What are the complications of herpes in children?**

- **Encephalitis:** The virus can reach the brain, leading to a latent infection that may cause severe inflammation of the brain, resulting in seizures and other complications.

- **Keratitis resulting from HSV:** If the child touches his eye after touching or scratching an area infected with herpes, the virus can be transmitted to the eye and lead to damage to the cornea. In most cases, the damage is temporary, but in severe cases, the child may suffer from vision loss.

- **Eczema Herpeticum:** Infants with eczema who develop herpes are at risk, and the condition can take a long time to treat. Complications are more common in children with weak immune systems and those younger than six months, so it's important to protect your child from herpes.

**What are the types and forms of herpes?**

- **Herpes simplex (HSV-1):** Herpes simplex virus 1, or HSV-1, is the most common type of herpes virus. About 65% of people between the ages of 14 and 49 are infected.

HSV-1 can affect the mouth and lips (oral herpes) or the genitals (genital herpes). The virus causes sores in the mouth or genitals. Many people with HSV-1 have no symptoms, which means they may not feel any signs until after they are infected. This makes HSV-1 transmission very common. Like other types of herpes, HSV-1 is spread through direct contact. HSV-1 can be treated with antiviral medications such as valacyclovir.

- **HSV-2**: HSV-2 is the second most common type of herpes virus. Like HSV-1, this virus is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact. About 11% of people ages 14 to 49 are infected with HSV-2, although many of them do not develop symptoms. HSV-2 usually causes genital herpes, and in rare cases, it can spread from the genitals to the mouth, causing oral herpes.

- **Herpes virus HHV-5**: Human herpes virus 5, or HHV-5, is also known as cytomegalovirus (CMV). Like other types of herpes virus, CMV is common and can infect people of all ages. As with other viruses of this type, CMV causes a lifelong infection with no known cure. The virus is usually spread to infants during birth, and it can also be transmitted through breast milk. Other common routes of transmission include sharing toys or items that come into contact with the mouth, such as eating utensils. After infection, some people may experience flu-like symptoms.

- **Herpes virus HHV-4**: Human herpes virus 4, or HHV-4, is a contagious virus that is often called the Epstein-Barr virus. HHV-4 is associated with infectious mononucleosis, a common virus that most people get in childhood, but its symptoms often appear in young adults and adults. It is spread through saliva.

- **Herpesvirus HHV-7**: Human herpesvirus 7, or HHV-7, is another common type of herpes virus, found in the majority of people. Symptoms of HHV-7 include a roseola, fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and seizures, as well as flu-like symptoms. Many people who get the virus may not have any symptoms, and most people get it before the age of 6.

- **Herpesvirus HHV-6**: Human herpesvirus 6, or HHV-6, is a type of herpes virus that causes “infantile roseola,” a common childhood illness that resolves on its own. While some cases of HHV-6 may not show symptoms, common symptoms include fever, rash, ear infections, respiratory and gastrointestinal problems, and even seizures during the initial outbreak. HHV-6 most commonly affects children, and HHV-6B is very common in young children.

- **Herpes virus HHV-3**: Human herpes virus 3, or HHV-3, is the type that causes chickenpox and shingles, and is also known as varicella-zoster virus. HHV-3 is a common virus that usually occurs during childhood, like chickenpox, causing painful, itchy lesions that develop in a band-like pattern on the body.

**Cold sore (Herpes labialis):** These appear on the lips and mouth, and can be painful and itchy.

**Eye infection (Herpetic keratitis):** Herpes simplex virus 1 can cause eye infections, affecting the cornea.

**Herpetic Gingivostomatitis:** This type of inflammation may occur in children, and is characterized by swelling of the gums and throat, and may be accompanied by a high temperature.

**Genital Herpes:** It appears in the genital area and may be accompanied by ulcers and pain. It is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment under the supervision of a specialist doctor, as herpes requires careful handling to avoid worsening the condition and transmission of the infection.

**When should you see a doctor?**

It is important to consult a doctor when a child is infected with herpes in the following cases:

- If this is the first time the child has been infected with herpes, especially if he suffers from weak immunity, eczema or any other skin condition.

**Symptoms appear in the newborn**

Some symptoms may appear in the newborn, such as:

- **Blisters or sores around the child's eyes**, which may lead to the cornea being exposed to infection.

- **The child has a fever**.

- **Symptoms indicating encephalitis or meningitis**, such as:

- **Headache**, where the child feels pain in the head and may be accompanied by confusion.

- **Fever**.

- **Epileptic seizures**, which means an increase in nerve activity in the brain, leading to muscle contraction or loss of consciousness.

- **The blisters do not heal within 7 to 10 days**, which may indicate that the child has a bacterial infection.

- **Redness of the skin and swelling of the area surrounding the blisters**, or a feeling of heat when touched, which may indicate the presence of a bacterial infection that poses a risk if it spreads in the blood. The risk of bacterial infection increases if the child suffers from health problems or takes medications that affect his immunity.

- **The child is repeatedly infected with herpes** more than 5 to 6 times a year, which requires consulting a doctor about the need to take antiviral medications.

**The most prominent symptoms of herpes in children**

The symptoms of herpes vary among children, as some may not show symptoms, while others suffer from severe symptoms. The symptoms of the first infection also differ from the symptoms of recurrence, and common symptoms include the following:

- The appearance of small pimples on the lips.

- Pimples on the lips.

- Fluid discharge from the pimples.

- Scabs on the pimples.

R with tingling and itching.

- Lip or mouth irritation.

- Soreness in the lips and mouth that lasts for 3 to 7 days.

- Inflammation of the mouth.

- Sore throat and gums.

- Swelling and redness of the lining of the mouth.

**Symptoms of herpes in infants**

- Refusal to eat and drink.

- Drooling.

- Increased irritability.

- Constant crying.

- High temperature.

- Swollen lymph nodes.

**What can a child with herpes eat?**

A little milk can help promote the growth of tissue damaged by the sores, and it also relieves itching and burning in the mouth.

To use, soak a cotton ball in fresh milk and apply it as a compress to the affected area for 10 minutes. After that, rinse the child's mouth with cold water. It is preferable to repeat this process three times daily.

**Using Ice Cubes to Treat Mouth Ulcers in Children**

Mouth ulcers cause the affected skin to become hot, causing a burning and itching sensation. To relieve the discomfort caused by the infection, ice cubes can be used to cool the area.

- Wrap several ice cubes in a cotton cloth.

- Place them on the child's lips.

- Leave them for at least 10 minutes.

- Repeat this process several times a day.

**Duration of Herpes Treatment in Children**

The duration of treatment for herpes in children varies depending on the child's age, the location of the ulcers, and the severity of the accompanying symptoms. The duration of treatment can be explained as follows:

- **Treatment of oral herpes or in the area around the eye**: Treatment is usually recommended for 14 days, and includes taking pills or using acyclovir ointment, known commercially as Zovirax.

- **Treatment of cerebral herpes causing encephalitis**: Treatment is usually recommended for 21 days, and includes taking acyclovir pills or injections as well.

- **Treatment of genital herpes**: Treatment is recommended for 5 to 14 days, and includes taking acyclovir pills or using acyclovir ointment.

**Methods of treating herpes in children**

Although there is no definitive cure for herpes, there are several options to relieve symptoms and inflammation. Parents are advised to consult a doctor to get an accurate assessment and a treatment plan appropriate for the individual case. Here are some methods used to treat forms of herpes in children:

- **Antivirals**: The doctor may recommend taking oral antivirals such as acyclovir or valacyclovir to reduce the severity of symptoms and speed up recovery. These medications can also help prevent recurrence of attacks.

- **Painkillers and antipyretics**: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as paracetamol can be used to relieve pain and fever.

- **Rest and hydration**: The child should get enough rest to support the immune system and speed up the healing process.

Using skin moisturizers helps soothe the skin and relieve itching.

**Preventive measures**:** Avoid touching areas affected by herpes and avoid sharing personal items, while making sure to wash hands regularly to reduce the spread of the virus.

**Eye care**:** If oral herpes affects the eyes, it is important to adhere to hygiene and use safe eye drops under the supervision of a doctor.

It is important to consult a doctor before using any treatment, especially in the case of children, to ensure safety and effectiveness.

**Herpes treatment with herbs**

**Lemon balm**:** Lemon balm is an effective treatment to soothe the symptoms of herpes lips, as a small amount of it can be applied to the blisters using a cotton swab.

**Aloe Vera:** Aloe Vera has properties that help heal wounds and fight viruses, so aloe vera gel can be applied to areas affected by oral herpes or rashes in children.

**Honey:** Honey can be used to treat oral herpes, and it is preferable to choose an original and reliable type to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and relieve symptoms in children.

**Chamomile:** Chamomile is considered one of the soothing herbs for the symptoms of herpes in children, and you can give them chamomile tea or use chamomile essential oil on the blisters.

**Manuka Honey:** Manuka honey is known for its antiviral properties, and research has shown that it is as effective as acyclovir in treating herpes of all types. It is also an antioxidant and helps speed up the healing of wounds, and can be applied directly to the affected areas. Manuka honey, which is produced by bees that feed on the Manuka plant, has many benefits such as boosting immunity and reducing gum bleeding.

**Garlic:** Garlic has many benefits, as it works as an antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal, in addition to its anti-inflammatory properties thanks to its allicin content, which reduces the production of cytokines that cause inflammation. It can be used to treat herpes by crushing a clove of garlic and mixing it with olive oil, then placing it on the blisters several times a day. It is recommended not to place garlic directly on the skin to avoid allergies. Garlic can also be taken orally if there is no irritation in the stomach or colon, as it helps boost the immune system and reduce harmful cholesterol levels.

Apple cider vinegar is considered an effective treatment thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, and it can be used to treat herpes by mixing a spoonful of apple cider vinegar with three spoons of water, then dipping a piece of cotton in the mixture and placing it on the affected area.

Lemon balm, also known as "melissa", is characterized by its bitter and pungent taste, and contains volatile oils such as citral, citronellal, and geraniol, in addition to tannins and tannin, which help prevent the virus from adhering to cells.

Red pepper contains resinous substances and capsaicin, which is used to relieve the symptoms of genital herpes.

St. John's wort contains hypericin, which helps eliminate the genital herpes virus, as it is used

Creams containing hypericin to treat herpes sores.

As for coneflower herbs, they boost the immune system and are effective in treating genital herpes, as they contain alkaloids such as isobutyl amide and phenic, in addition to caffeic acid and volatile oils.

Lavender oil is considered an anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce the severity of inflammation of blisters and herpes sores. It is preferable to use it diluted with a carrier oil such as olive oil, to avoid skin irritation.

Licorice roots are characterized by their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties thanks to their glycyrrhizin content. It can be used in the form of a liquid or moisturizer such as creams or lip butter, and it has many benefits for the skin, as it helps lighten it and remove pigmentation thanks to the glabridin substance.

Tips for treating herpes in children

Parents can follow the following guidelines to treat herpes in children:

1. Give the child painkillers after consulting a doctor, such as Panadol or its commercial alternatives, or Ibuprofen, known by its commercial names such as Advil.

2. Place an ice pack wrapped in a towel on the affected area to relieve pain.

3. Avoid giving foods with a high acid content in the event of mouth ulcers, such as juices and citrus fruits.

4. Keep the affected area clean and dry.

5. Wash hands frequently and avoid touching sores to prevent the spread of the virus.

6. Make sure the child gets enough rest.