Herpes in children - types, symptoms and treatment of the most common types of the virus. Herpes in children: treatment at home Herpes in a child treatment

There is the biggest law of meanness: if you have an important meeting, taking a memorable photo or an interview for a new job, herpes will definitely appear on your face on that day. The appearance of this disease is not associated only with adulthood; most often, infection with herpes occurs in childhood, and in adulthood we see only an exacerbation of the viral infection.

Herpes infection is chronic. This is due to the fact that the herpes virus is localized in the nerve cells of the mucosa, where antiviral drugs cannot penetrate. It is in these cells that the virus lies dormant and begins to actively multiply when the body’s defenses are reduced.

Causes of herpes in children

Infection most often occurs through shared dishes, kisses, or a shared towel. Most often, children become infected with the herpes virus from adults (from their parents), as they are in close contact with them. Pacifiers pose a particular risk of infection to children. Very often you can observe a picture when a mother, before giving her baby a pacifier, licks it to remove excess microbes from its surface. At the same time, not a single mother thinks about how many bacteria and viruses are in her mouth, including herpes viruses. Under no circumstances should you lick your child’s personal items, only rinse with boiled water.

The herpes virus can persist on toys for some time, so it is very important to periodically boil toys, especially in kindergartens, where more than 10 children can play with the same toy per day. Therefore, in kindergartens all toys should only be plastic or rubber.

It is customary to distinguish two types of herpes infection: herpes types 1 and 2. Previously, it was believed that type 1 herpes could only cause damage to the mucous membranes of the lips (labial), and type 2 herpes could only cause damage to the genitals (genital). However, more recently, scientists have proven that both herpes type 1 and herpes type 2 can cause damage to both the lips and genitals. Therefore, if a mother, for example, has labial herpes, and she uses the baby's towel to wipe her face, and then wipes the baby with that towel after washing, the baby may develop genital herpes, although it was previously thought that it could only be transmitted through sexual contact.

Most often, herpes infection manifests itself against the background of colds, since this is when the child’s immunity decreases. Poor nutrition, vitamin deficiencies, frequent hypothermia, and chronic stress also lead to the development of herpetic infection. The season for the appearance of herpes infection is autumn-spring, when daylight hours shorten, the amount of vitamins and minerals entering the body decreases, and the ambient temperature decreases. In some cases, herpetic infection may occur in the summer, and this is due to the presence of immunodeficiency conditions in the child or chronic hypothermia when using fans and air conditioners, or sunburn of the mucous membranes.

Symptoms of herpes in children

Symptoms of a herpes infection in a child are fever and a vesicular rash. The child’s body temperature may increase slightly, up to 37-37.5˚ C. In some cases, if the child’s body is weakened, the body temperature may rise to 38.5˚ C. The temperature usually lasts 2-3 days, and then decreases in the absence of complications . A vesicular rash appears on the mucous membrane of the lips against the background of hyperemia (redness) and swelling of the lip. Typically, a herpetic rash is represented by 1-2 small blisters filled with clear liquid. Due to compression of the nerve endings in the area of ​​the rash, pain and itching of this area is observed. After the vesicle is opened, a small ulcer forms in its place, which heals without leaving any marks. A feature of herpetic infection is that blisters appear in the same place with each exacerbation of the disease. This is explained by the fact that the herpes virus lives in the nerve fibers innervating this area.

With a significant decrease in immunity, the child’s condition can be very serious. He is worried about a significant increase in body temperature (sometimes up to 40˚ C), weakness, headache, and loss of appetite. The rash on the mucous membranes occupies a large area of ​​the lip; after opening the vesicles, a wound surface is formed, which is then covered with a crust. Wound healing occurs under this crust. In this condition, if there is no proper treatment, children may develop complications in the form of herpetic damage to internal organs (most often the liver), herpetic gastroenterocolitis (manifested by vomiting, diarrhea), herpetic encephalitis (virus infection of brain cells). All these complications pose a serious danger to the child’s health and should be treated only in specialized clinics.

Congenital herpes in children

Congenital herpes poses a particular danger to children. This disease develops due to the virus entering the fetus during pregnancy or childbirth. The most serious complications are observed if the child’s mother became infected with the herpes virus during pregnancy; it is less dangerous to develop than an exacerbation of a pre-existing infection. The time of exacerbation of infection is also important: the most dangerous period in terms of transmission of infection to a child is the period preceding childbirth. In some cases, a viral infection in the mother may be asymptomatic.

The first symptoms of the disease can appear in newborns as early as 48 hours after birth, especially for children whose infection occurred in the early stages of pregnancy. A later onset of the disease (a month after birth) is associated with infection of the child during childbirth.

Symptoms of herpes infection depend on the form of the disease and timing of infection. If infection occurs during childbirth, then the manifestations of the disease are reduced to the appearance of a vesicular rash on the skin, mucous membranes, palms and soles. When a child is infected during intrauterine development, the symptoms are associated with impaired development of various organs: the nervous system, liver, heart, pancreas. Symptoms of congenital herpes are as follows:

1. Jaundice. Jaundice has a wave-like character and begins on the 3-4th day. The stool is colored at the beginning of the disease, then loses color and becomes colorless. The urine is light at first and then darkens.
2. Damage to the central nervous system manifests itself in the form of convulsions, increased excitability, children refuse to eat, they are drowsy, and the process of thermoregulation is disrupted.
3. Generalization of the process. The child’s condition deteriorates sharply, they are lethargic, adynamic, refuse to eat, and herpetic pneumonia develops.

It is very important to start treatment on time, since in the absence of medical care for such children, the likelihood of death increases, in some cases the mortality rate can reach 90%.

Treatment of herpes in children

To treat herpes infection, antiviral drugs, immunostimulants, and interferons are used.

Antiviral drug Acyclovir is used for herpes infections. This drug can be used either as an intravenous injection or as tablets. The method of administration of the drug depends on the severity of the disease and its form. The drug is administered intravenously at a dosage of 30-60 mg/kg of the child’s body weight, orally – 90 mg/kg. Taking the drug should be divided into 3-4 parts. This drug can also be used externally in the form of an ointment. It must be applied to the affected areas of the skin and mucous membranes 4-5 times a day.

Immunostimulating drugs contribute to the fact that the child’s body fights the virus more effectively and does not allow the virus to infect new areas of mucous membranes and internal organs. For treatment, you can use immunostimulating drugs such as Immunal, Groprinosin, Arpetol.

Interferons contribute to the destruction of viruses and do not allow them to multiply uncontrollably. They can be used both in tablet form and in the form of suppositories. Suppositories are inserted into the child's anus 2 times a day for 5 days, the course is repeated 2-3 times with a break of 5 days.

In addition to herpetic lesions of the mucous membranes, the herpes virus (usually the herpes zoster type of virus) can also infect the skin. In this case, diseases such as chicken pox and shingles may develop.

Prevention of herpes in children

To prevent herpes, you must follow the rules of personal hygiene and not use other people's personal belongings, and avoid close contact with people with herpes. To strengthen the child’s immune system, proper nutrition, vitamin therapy in the autumn-spring period, and the use of immunostimulating drugs in preventive doses in the winter are necessary. You can also use the method of autohemotherapy, when the child’s blood from a vein is injected into the gluteal muscle according to a special scheme.

Remember! Herpes cannot be cured, it can only be healed.

Pediatrician Litashov M.V.

Doctor   Dmitry Sedykh

Herpes viruses are a large group of infectious pathogens, including over 80 varieties. Of these, 8 types are dangerous to humans. They are easily transmitted from one person to another - for this reason, infection often occurs in childhood. Any herpes virus in a weakened child can cause harm to the fragile body, so correct diagnosis and adequate treatment at this age are especially important.

According to research, the peak incidence of herpes viruses occurs at the age of 2-3 years. In the first months of life, the baby is protected by antibodies received from the mother, but already in a one-year-old child, herpes can manifest itself in one way or another. The correct strategy for treating herpes infection in children largely depends on the accuracy of the diagnosis, so the identification of the pathogen should be entrusted to a specialist. But parents also need to know what to pay attention to if their child gets sick.

By the age of 15, 90% of children are infected with the herpes simplex virus

Herpes simplex virus type 1

This is one of the first infections that babies encounter at the beginning of life. It is often diagnosed even in children under one year old. The reason is constant close contact with carriers, which are most adults (including parents). Routes of infection:

• contact, contact-household;
• airborne;
• vertical (from mother to child - in utero or during labor).

The incubation period lasts from 1 day to 3 weeks, after which visible symptoms appear.

Herpes type 1 most often affects the face and the “upper” part of the body. The disease can occur even in the youngest children. The main symptom of herpes simplex is blistering rashes on the lips, mouth, and skin. Sometimes they can spread to the throat, mucous membranes of the eyes and nose. The affected areas are bothered by severe itching and pain. In some cases, the disease is accompanied by fever, lethargy, and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.

The virus poses a certain threat - herpes simplex in a child can cause:

• gingivitis, stomatitis;
• herpetic sore throat;
• generalized herpes of the skin;
• neurological diseases;
• encephalitis;
• keratitis;
• herpetic panacirium (a form of skin lesion).

The frequency of relapses of herpes and the severity of their course depend on the state of the immune system.

Herpes simplex virus type 2

In children, this herpes infection is less common because it is transmitted primarily through sexual contact. Primary infection with herpes can occur during childbirth, when passing through the mother's birth canal. The possibility of contact infection when caring for a baby cannot be completely ruled out.

Herpes type 2 affects the mucous membranes of the genitals and adjacent areas of the skin. Characteristic rashes can spread to the urethra and rectum. The virus poses a great danger to a child:

• leads to a decrease in general immunity;
• causes diseases of the reproductive and urinary systems (cystitis, pyelonephritis, endocervicitis);
• may cause infertility in the future;
• increases the likelihood of contracting HIV.

Therefore, if the disease is diagnosed in one of the family members, increased attention should be paid to hygiene issues.

Herpes types 1 and 2 are combined into one group and classified as HSV - herpes simplex viruses.

Genital herpes in children and pregnancy

Herpes type 3 (Varicella-zoster)

Causes chickenpox, one of the most recognizable infections in children. The disease is caused by primary contact with the virus. Infection most often occurs when visiting a kindergarten. The pathogen is easily transmitted from one child to another through contact, household and airborne droplets. The baby becomes contagious 2 days before the blisters appear on the skin, and remains a source of infection for about a week after that.

The incubation period can last from 1 to 3 weeks, then symptoms appear:

• body temperature rises (up to 39-40 degrees);
• itchy blisters filled with liquid appear on the skin and mucous membranes;
• they burst within a short time, in their place small crusts form, which then dry out and fall off.

The duration of the acute phase of the disease is 7-10 days. The temperature with such herpes may decrease after 2-3 days, or may bother you throughout the entire course of the disease. After the end of the acute period, stable immunity to the pathogen is formed, but when it decreases, a recurrence of the infection is possible - it is called “herpes zoster.” In this case, the rashes occupy a limited area (associated with the nerve ganglia, where the virus remains dormant).

In a weakened child, the Varicella-Zoster virus can cause serious illnesses - pneumonia, encephalitis and other damage to internal organs, so chickenpox should not be taken lightly.

Type 4 - Epstein-Barr virus

It is transmitted in the same way as other herpes viruses - through contact, household and airborne droplets, and is very contagious. The incubation period can last up to 1.5 months. Infection with this virus often goes unnoticed, but in some cases it causes a specific disease - infectious mononucleosis.

A viral disease poses a threat to a child's health. Treatment of herpes in children 3 years of age begins after the diagnosis has been established and the results of additional research methods have been obtained.

Treatment of an infectious disease is carried out using medications:

• chemotherapeutic agents;
• interferon inducers;
• immunotropic substances;
• recombinant vaccines.

For specific prevention of relapses, medications that restore immunity are used:

• Polyoxidonium;
• Ridostatin;
• Tromantadine;
• Helepin-D;
• Lycopid.

A protracted pathological process requires long-term use of immunomodulators. The course of therapy lasts 60 days.

During the period of remission, the child is prescribed herbal adaptogens:

• Immunal;
• tincture of eleutherococcus;
• decoction of the herb Echinacea purpurea.

Vitamins for children with herpes will help strengthen the immune system and ease the course of the disease.

Manifestations and treatment of acute stomatitis in preschool children

The disease in a young child begins with complaints of poor health, headache, and loss of appetite. The temperature rises to 39°C.

The patient notes the appearance of dizziness, drowsiness, rashes appear in the oral cavity, and increased salivation. The child's submandibular lymph nodes become enlarged, his gums become inflamed and bleed.

In the oral cavity, the bubbles merge with each other. In severe cases, the child’s body does not tolerate high temperature well, a runny nose, coughing, and swollen conjunctiva of a bright red color appear. The soft palate is affected, the gums become covered with necrotic plaque. To maintain immunity, the child is prescribed interferons:

• Viferon;
• Kipferon;
• Ingaron.

Antiviral drugs affect cellular and humoral immunity. The convenient form of release of Kipferon suppositories allows them to be used for treating young children. In case of severe disease, several courses of therapy are carried out.

In case of recurrent form of herpes stomatitis, the child is prescribed Viferon suppositories. The effect can be achieved if treatment is started in the prodromal (initial) period of the disease. The doctor determines the single and daily dose of the drug to eliminate itching, burning and rashes in the oral cavity.

Labial form of infection

Three years old. An acute viral disease is accompanied by itching and the appearance of slight swelling in the areas of future rashes. The child experiences symptoms of intoxication:

• chills;
• headache;
• irritability;
• weakness.

The patient develops bubbles in the corners of the mouth filled with transparent contents.

A severe course of the disease is observed in children suffering from chronic tonsillitis and blood diseases. Low-grade fever lasts for several days, and there is an unpleasant odor from the mouth.

Among them, the appearance of a specific rash in a child is noted, which becomes covered with a crust after the opening of the blisters.

To ensure normal functioning of the immune system, the patient is prescribed medications containing zinc. The use of the medicine prevents the development of complications. For regular treatment of rashes, antiseptic drugs are used:

• camphor or 70% ethyl alcohol;
• 3% oxolinic ointment;
• Hyporamine tablets.

The child is recommended to take beneficial bifidobacteria, which affect temperature and eliminate signs of intoxication. Vitamin C shortens the duration of the disease and makes it easier for the patient to endure a “cold” on the lips.

Genital herpes in a child

A viral disease poses a danger to a small person. The patient complains of a burning sensation in the areas of future rashes. The child suffers from high fever, headache, irritability, and insomnia.

Lesions in the genital area are large, weeping areas. The patient is showing signs of toxin poisoning. If the course of herpes is unfavorable, severe pain is felt in the affected area, the pulse quickens, dry mouth, and difficulty urinating appear.

Treatment of inflammation is carried out under the supervision of a physician. To stabilize the patient’s condition and increase T-lymphocytes in the blood, drugs that have an anti-inflammatory effect are prescribed. Natural remedies are recommended to strengthen the immune system:

• flower pollen;
• cranberries;
• natural honey;
• carrot;
• tea with Echinacea purpurea herb;
• broccoli;
• turnip;
• cereals.

For severe herpes in children, immunostimulants such as Likopid are included in therapy.

It is necessary to treat genital herpes with the help of creams that have an antiviral effect. The child is prescribed antihistamines to prevent the development of an allergic reaction and reduce itching and burning:

• Suprastin;
• Diazolin;
• Zyrtec;
• Claritin.

How to treat shingles

A viral disease in a child of the third year of life is rare. Infection can occur from a sick person. In children, the disease manifests itself acutely and is characterized by high fever. The child is capricious, refuses to eat, and cries a lot.

He complains of numbness in his fingers, the appearance of blisters, which dry out and become crusty after a week. In some cases, there are no rashes, the skin becomes bright red, and painful spots form. , occurring in severe form, are hospitalized. Antiviral drugs are prescribed for therapy:

• Acyclovir;
• Metisazon.

For local treatment, salicylic alcohol, 1% oxolinic ointment, and 1% alcohol solution of brilliant green are used. To reduce pain and discomfort, the patient is prescribed medications:

• Ibuprofen;
• Nise;
• Panadol Solutab.

Claritin and other antihistamines for children are available in the form of syrups.

Cytomegalovirus - signs and treatment

The acute form of the disease is manifested by severe symptoms:

• headache;
• fatigue;
• malaise;
• fever.

Herpetic conjunctivitis occurs when inflammation provokes simultaneous damage to the upper respiratory tract. Some herpes symptoms may persist for 2-3 months. In this case, children need the help of a pediatrician.

The correct approach to treating the disease is to take measures aimed at increasing the body's defenses. The child should be given medications that reduce body temperature and should be provided with physical and psychological rest. It is necessary to be wary of the addition of a bacterial infection.

The disease in a child occurs in the form of chickenpox, infectious mononucleosis, herpes zoster or stomatitis caused by HSV types 1 or 2.

Severe complications develop in children with impaired immune system function, diabetes mellitus, and kidney disease. If the infection is severe, the patient is prescribed the drug Ganciclovir. If a cough with sputum appears, the child takes expectorants:

• marshmallow root syrup;
• Mukaltin;
• Lazolvan.

If rashes appear

Herpes virus type 7 (HHV-7) causes the development of an acute viral infection in a preschool child. Sudden exanthema is manifested by the following symptoms:

• elevated temperature;
• runny nose;
• itching;
• lacrimation;
• swelling of the eyelids;
• decreased visual acuity;
• pinpoint rash on the upper palate.

The temperature decreases on the fourth day of illness. The lesions are located on the neck and torso and disappear after 3 days without a trace. Herpesviruses type 6 cause the development of hepatitis, allergies, and thrombocytopenic purpura. If a child falls ill suddenly, it is necessary to limit his contact with other children.

Convulsive syndrome is treated with drugs:

• Phenobarbital;
• Depakine;
• Difenin;
• Finlepsin;
• Seduxen.

During periods of exacerbation, treatment is carried out with antiviral drugs, which are taken for a long time. The doctor prescribes medications:

• Pharmaciclovir;
• Valaciclovir.

For atypical exanthema (infectious mononucleosis), medications are used for treatment:

• Viferon;
• Cycloferon;
• Isoprinosine.

The drug Ergoferon has an anti-inflammatory effect and quickly eliminates the main symptoms of the disease.

Pityriasis rosea is a sign of herpetic infection

At the initial stage, the patient complains of malaise, fever, pain and aches in the joints, like the flu.

Plaques the size of a ruble coin appear on the chest and upper limbs. They have a bright color, uneven edges, and rise above the skin level. There are no rashes on the neck or face. The patient complains of itching and burning in places where light red oval or round vesicles appear.

To treat herpes in a 3-year-old child, the doctor prescribes antihistamines:

• Fenistil;
• Claritin;
• Diazolin.

It is useful to take general strengthening agents:

• Ascorutin;
• pantothenic acid;
• B vitamins.

Hot and spicy foods are excluded from the diet. Do not wet the rashes with water or rub them with a washcloth. Traditional medicine recommends treating the affected areas 2-3 times a day with cranberry or lingonberry juice.

Severe illnesses caused by the herpes virus are extremely contagious and require isolation of the sick child from other children. Bed rest is required.

If the temperature rises, malaise or chills appear, the doctor prescribes antipyretics:

• Paracetamol;
• Analgin;
• Nurofen.

Particular attention is paid to the daily routine and the state of the nervous system.

Treatment of Epstein-Barr virus

One of the representatives of the herpes pathogen family causes the following diseases:

• infectious mononucleosis;
• Burkitt's lymphoma;
• respiratory infections.

The child complains of fever, sore throat, runny nose, and discomfort in the right iliac region. If a severe form of mononucleosis develops, indigestion, nausea, and vomiting appear.

A rare complication of the disease is splenic rupture. The patient complains of abdominal discomfort, palpitations, muscle tension in the anterior abdominal wall, and fainting. In the erased form of the disease, the symptoms are mild.

You should not give medications to a young child without a doctor's recommendation. Antiviral drugs are used at an early stage of the disease. The drug Inosine Pranobex does not cause the development of adverse reactions, therefore it is prescribed to patients from 3 years of age. The child is given complex therapy using hepatoprotectors and antipyretic drugs. If mononucleosis occurs against the background of fungal infection of internal organs, it is recommended to take the drugs Fluconazole and Nystatin.

More on this topic:

Increasingly, doctors are registering various forms of herpetic infections in children. These diseases have a chronic course, which requires mandatory monitoring by parents and doctors. Not everyone knows what the symptoms and treatment of herpes in children are.

Types of virus

Currently, scientists have discovered 8 types of viral herpes species. These harmful microorganisms very easily cause herpes infection in young children. The structure of only three of the eight subtypes has been well studied. They are the most thoroughly described and studied. These infectious agents most often cause colds on the lips and in the intimate area in children.

Literally translated, herpetic lesion means “creeping disease.” Doctors gave this name to the disease several centuries ago. The peculiarity of this virus is that the favorite places for its occurrence are various mucous membranes. Microbes have a toxic effect on epithelial cells, which leads to the appearance of various adverse symptoms.

In pediatric practice, the most common are 8 subtypes of viruses that cause various damage to the baby:

• Type 1. More often they contribute to the development of various rashes on the mucous membranes of the lips in the child.
• Type 2. Causes a rash on the mucous membranes of the genital organs.
• Type 3. It belongs to a subspecies of the virus that can cause chickenpox or shingles in a baby.
• Type 4. Doctors call it the Epstein-Barr herpes virus. These microorganisms can cause manifestations of infectious mononucleosis in a baby.
• Type 5. It is responsible for the development of cytomegalovirus infection.
• Type 6. A fairly new subspecies of the virus. Scientists conduct a large number of different studies to study in detail the infectious and virulent properties of this microorganism. This type of herpes can cause manifestations of multiple sclerosis or the development of sudden exanthema.
• Type 7. Not described in detail. Currently, researchers are studying the properties of this microorganism. There is scientific evidence that this particular subtype is responsible for the development of sudden skin rashes in a baby and leads to the development of chronic fatigue.
• Type 8. A rather unfavorable subtype of the virus. May contribute to the development of malignant neoplasms on the skin. There are scientific studies suggesting that this particular virus contributes to the development of Kaposi's sarcoma.

Incubation period

Most viral diseases are highly contagious (infectious). Herpes is no exception. A sick person who has a high concentration of viruses in the blood is contagious. Based on statistics, it can be noted that the largest number of cases of the disease are caused by a subtype of herpes simplex. It contributes to the development of adverse symptoms of herpes infection in 90% of children.

For a long time, a child may not even suspect that he is already infected with herpes. In this case, the infection occurs in a latent form. With this variant of the disease there are no symptoms. The latent form occurs in approximately 5% of children.

Typically, infection with the herpes virus occurs through initial contact with an infected person. The incubation period for different subtypes of the virus may vary. The first symptoms of the disease can appear either a couple of days after the pathogen enters the child’s body or several months later.

The duration of the incubation period depends on many factors and initial data. The level of the immune system plays an important role in this. If the baby’s immunity is strong, then the symptoms of the disease may be mild (or absent altogether) for a long period of time. They usually appear only when the immune system is not functioning well.

The incubation period for herpes type 1 usually ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks. In this case, the first rashes appear on the mucous membranes of the lips and in the mouth. Genital herpes, which causes a rash in the intimate area, usually causes uncomfortable symptoms after 6-7 days. Zoster variants of the disease have a longer incubation period. In some cases it can be several months (or even years).

Main symptoms

Different subtypes of viruses can settle on different mucous membranes. This results in a wide variety of localizations. Each type of herpes has its own clinical characteristics. This is due to the properties of the viral particles themselves. The infection manifests itself in children in different ways.

Herpes can cause the following clinical manifestations in a child:

• Increased body temperature. Usually it increases to febrile levels. The peak of elevated temperature occurs in the first 3-4 days from the beginning of the acute period of the disease. The temperature usually drops quickly. For normalization, the prescription of anti-inflammatory and antipyretic drugs is required.
• Appearance of a rash. It is represented by a collection of numerous formations, inside of which there is liquid. These rashes look like bubbles filled with contents. The location of the rash is determined by the type of virus that caused the disease.
• Enlarged lymph nodes. Regional lymph collectors are usually affected. If the virus causes a rash on the upper half of the body, then the cervical, parotid, submandibular and subclavian lymph nodes will be involved in the process. They increase in size and become tightly fused to the skin. When palpating them, the child may experience pain.

• Severe symptoms of intoxication. The abundance of viral toxins has a toxic effect on the entire body. The child feels “broken” and becomes very lethargic. Children's appetite and sleep are disturbed. Infants often refuse breastfeeding.
• Behavior change. Kids become more capricious. Children in the first years of life do not make contact well. More severe forms of the disease lead to increased drowsiness. Unbearable itching of skin rashes contributes to increased anxiety and nervousness in the baby.
• Soreness in the areas of herpetic blisters. Herpes rashes are usually very itchy. With the shingles variant, the pain spreads along the damaged nerve. After the rash disappears, the pain goes away.

In the mouth

Most often, this variant is caused by the herpes virus type 1. The child experiences all the symptoms described above. Herpetic rash has several features. With the herpes simplex virus, it can occur on the tonsils, cheek, and tongue. The rash is represented by various diverse blisters, inside of which there is liquid.

The liquid component usually has a grayish or reddish color. Herpetic blisters protrude a couple of millimeters above the surface of the skin. In severe cases, they can be numerous and quite large in size. Such rashes on the tonsils present a certain difficulty. They can easily break through and become injured during meals.

This type of herpes is also characterized by an increase in the parotid and cervical lymph nodes. In some cases, they even become visible to the naked eye. The baby's body temperature rises to 38-38.5 degrees. The abundance of rashes leads to severe pain when swallowing. This contributes to poor appetite.

Rash on lips

They most often occur when infected with a simple virus. Typically, the development of this herpetic rash is promoted by subtype 1. The disease is characterized by the appearance of numerous blisters filled from the inside with serous-bloody fluid. These formations are easily injured. Even minor trauma can cause capillary bleeding.

The danger also lies in the fact that when such bubbles are damaged, open wounds appear. A secondary bacterial infection can easily penetrate into them. This leads to the development of viral-bacterial conditions. You can notice such changes at home. When bacteria enter, the bubbles begin to fester.

The red border of the lips is the most favorite location for herpes simplex viruses. Rashes do not appear immediately. First, the damaged area begins to itch very much. After a couple of hours or by the end of the first day after the onset of severe itching, blisters begin to appear. When they appear, the itching increases several times.

Typically, blisters remain on the skin for 6-12 days. After an acute period of illness, they completely disappear from the skin. In their place, a dry crust appears, which after some time disappears on its own. In some cases, moderate itching and redness of the damaged areas of the skin persist.

Herpetic rashes on the face

This localization is not the most common. Typically, this form of herpetic infection occurs in weakened and frequently ill children, as well as children with various forms of immunodeficiency conditions. With this variant of the disease, red itchy blisters appear on the nose, chin, forehead, and eyelid. Severe forms of the disease are accompanied by the appearance of herpetic rashes on almost the entire surface of the facial skin.

Each subtype of herpes has its own favorite localizations and some features of the development of unfavorable symptoms. Thus, with herpes virus type 1, blisters appear mainly in the area of ​​the nasolabial triangle. With the shingles variant, the rashes cover not only the face, they occur throughout the body. Chickenpox is characterized by a gradual appearance of the rash. In some cases, it also appears on the head, in the hair area.

After the blisters disappear, crusts remain on the skin. They usually differ in color from the surrounding skin. The crusts are reddish or red-brown in color. After a couple of days, they completely disappear, and the skin becomes pale pink and clean again. Itching usually disappears after 5-6 days from the moment the first rash appears on the face.

What does the encircling option look like?

The development of this disease is caused by type 3 herpes virus. This viral subtype is quite virulent. The risk of infection is quite high. Typically, children who attend kindergarten and preschool institutions are more likely to become infected with shingles. The herpes virus can remain in the environment for quite a long time. Only prolonged exposure to high temperatures and ultraviolet radiation lead to its destruction.

Most often, doctors note the disease as a form of zoster infection in children who have recently had chickenpox. This is largely due to the peculiarities of the immune system. A weakened immune system cannot cope with the attack of pathogenic viruses. Frequently ill children and children with immunodeficiencies are also at increased risk.

Once entering a child’s body, viruses can remain in a “dormant” state for quite a long time. Usually, through the bloodstream, they enter the nerve ganglia, where they can maintain their viability for a long time without losing their virulent properties. Under unfavorable conditions, they begin to actively multiply and cause the baby to develop classic symptoms of a herpetic infection.

In the shingles form, herpetic blisters appear on almost the entire body. Their location depends on the affected nerve. They can be located on the leg, arm, back, or front surface of the chest. The rarest localization for the shingles form is on the palms and soles. In such cases, painful blisters mainly appear on the skin of the fingers.

The development of rashes goes through several successive stages. Severe redness appears first. After a couple of hours, moderate itching appears, which becomes unbearable over time. The next stage is the appearance of bubbles. They contain serous fluid inside. Herpetic blisters remain on the skin for three to four weeks.

Then they disappear, and ulcers form in their place. If at this time the secondary bacterial flora does not reach the damaged areas, they will heal and crusts will form. The crusts may last for a week. The itching noticeably decreases at this time. After another week, the crusts begin to fall off on their own.

After an illness, only patches of depigmented skin may remain on the skin. This is a temporary phenomenon. Usually, over time, this symptom completely disappears. Subsequently, the child’s skin becomes clean, without traces of a previous herpetic infection.

Skin rashes also accompany other symptoms. These include an increase in temperature to febrile levels, soreness and enlargement of the cervical and axillary lymph nodes, increasing headache and severe weakness. They usually persist throughout the entire acute period of the disease. To eliminate them, the prescription of anti-inflammatory drugs and plenty of warm drinks is required.

Doctors usually note that the severity of the disease depends on the age of the patient. The younger the child, the easier he tolerates this form of herpetic infection. In older age, the disease is quite difficult to tolerate. Some patients with severe herpes zoster are even hospitalized. They are indicated for intensive treatment.

In the intimate area

Damage to the genital organs by herpes infection is a fairly common pathology encountered in pediatric medical practice. This disease is caused by the herpes virus type 2. It is distinguished by its peculiarity of affecting the mucous membranes of the genital organs. The severity of the disease depends on the age of the child, the presence of concomitant chronic diseases, as well as the state of his immunity.

This variant of herpes infection is usually transmitted sexually. However, there are some peculiarities in the transmission of the disease in children. They can also become infected during fetal development - transcervically. In this case, viruses enter the blood along with amniotic fluid. The transplacental method promotes the transmission of microorganisms through the blood vessels of the placenta.

Scientists also note a variant of infection through the fallopian tubes - transovarian. A fairly common method of infection is during childbirth. Even minor damage allows viruses to easily enter the child’s body. This option is also called contact. Doctors note that children usually become very easily infected with herpes infection during birth.

The most significant susceptibility to infection with type 2 herpes viruses is in children aged six months to three years. The immune system of children at this age is not yet fully functioning. This contributes to the fact that the child’s body cannot cope with the destruction of viruses on its own. Typically, after initial contact, clinical symptoms appear in only 10% of cases. For others, the infection remains latent.

Most cases of herpes virus type 2 infection occur in adolescence. The variant of infection in this case is sexual or household contact. After 5-7 days, the first adverse symptoms of the disease appear in children. They can persist for several weeks. The subsidence of the acute period of the disease does not indicate complete recovery. Very often the course is chronic.

The classic symptom of “genital” herpes is numerous blisters. They are located on the external genitalia. These skin elements are quite itchy. In some cases, the itching can be unbearable. The time of day doesn't matter. Itching can bother a child both during the day and at night.

After the blisters disappear, erosions and wounds remain on the skin. Epithelialization will take some time. Usually it takes 5-6 days. Then the mucous membrane is completely restored and heals. There are no traces of the disease left behind.

The child's general well-being is quite disturbed. The baby feels bad and becomes increasingly nervous. Small children are more often capricious; babies may often ask to be held. Body temperature usually increases to 38-39 degrees. Against the background of a febrile condition, the child may develop chills and fever.

Symptoms of intoxication are also significantly pronounced. With these forms of the disease, headaches, sleep and appetite disturbances, as well as fatigue often occur. It is important to note that this subtype of the virus contributes to the development of relapses. Any condition that leads to a decrease in immunity leads to the appearance of new skin rashes in the child. Such relapses can occur even several years after the first exacerbation.

Mild forms of genital herpes occur in 90-95% of children. In other cases, the disease is severe. This condition requires emergency hospitalization of the child in a hospital. There, the baby will receive the entire necessary range of antiviral and anti-inflammatory treatment.

Genital disease in a newborn and one-year-old child

Every day, doctors began to note an increasing number of cases of infection with this particular form of herpes infection. Babies are mainly infected during childbirth. Pregnancy pathologies also contribute to the development of intrauterine infection of the unborn fetus. Violation of the integrity of the placenta and feeding blood vessels leads to easier penetration of viruses into the baby.

Children under the age of 1 year suffer from herpes quite seriously. However, there are also exceptions. The severity of the disease depends on the state of the baby’s immunity, his weight at birth, as well as the presence of concomitant chronic diseases. If a child becomes infected with the virus during childbirth, the first symptoms usually appear within 10-14 days.

Doctors identify several options for the course of infection in babies in the first months of life:

• Localized. Usually occurs in every 2-4 children who become infected with genital herpes during childbirth. Herpetic rashes appear on the skin, mucous membranes of the oral cavity, and also in the eye area. Usually they are single; other variants occur only in severe cases of the disease. The most dangerous localization is the eye area, as dangerous complications may arise in the form of atrophy of the optic nerve and the development of decreased vision.
• Generalized. Usually occurs in 25-40% of cases. The first symptoms appear in the baby within 5-7 days from the moment the viruses enter the blood. It is characterized by a rather severe course. Herpetic rashes cover almost the entire surface of the skin.
• Penetration into the brain. They are registered in approximately 30% of newborns infected with herpes virus type 2. The first clinical signs appear 2-3 weeks after the microorganisms enter the child’s body. The course of the disease is unfavorable: symptoms increase rapidly - over a short period of time. The danger of the condition is that it can be fatal.

Treatment

Today, therapy for herpes infections is diverse. It includes a large number of different drugs and medications. Unfortunately, it is not possible to completely cure herpes in some cases. Some forms of the disease (for example, chickenpox) go away on their own. After suffering from chickenpox, the baby develops stable lifelong immunity.

All treatment of herpetic infections can be divided into several sections:

• Use of antiviral therapy. Medicines can be prescribed in the form of tablets, injections and ointments. For mild forms of the disease, topical drugs are predominantly used. To eliminate severe symptoms, the prescription of tablets is required. Among the most commonly used drugs are Acyclovir, Zovirax, Valtrex, Vectavir, Famvir and others.
• Restoring the immune system. Immunotherapy is carried out mainly during remission. The use of interferon drugs and immunoglobulins helps strengthen the immune system. Medicines are prescribed as a course of treatment. The regimen is selected by a pediatrician or immunologist, taking into account the child’s age and the characteristics of his medical history, as well as the presence of concomitant chronic diseases.
• Bed rest during the acute period. It is better to spend the time when the baby has a high temperature in bed. This will contribute to a faster recovery and prevent dangerous complications. Usually bed rest is prescribed for 3-5 days. In severe cases, it can be extended for a week or more.

• A nutritious diet with a fairly high calorie content. Prolonged development of the disease leads to physical exhaustion of the baby. To compensate for this condition, more intensive nutrition is required. If a child has herpetic rashes in the mouth, then you should choose dishes with a thinner and softer consistency. After the inflammatory process in the oral cavity subsides, the baby’s menu can be expanded.
• Taking multivitamin complexes. To cope with the consequences of viral intoxication, additional enrichment of the diet with vitamins and beneficial microelements is required. Multivitamin complexes enriched with antioxidants help the immune system function well. Selenium, vitamin C and retinol will be excellent helpers in the fight against a dangerous viral infection.
• Warm, plenty of drink. Helps eliminate all toxic products from the body. Various fruit drinks and compotes made from berries and fruits are perfect as drinks. Drinks that are too sweet should not be given to your baby. It is better to dilute them with boiled water first. During the day, a sick baby should drink 1.5 liters of liquid.
• If a child develops chickenpox, it is very important to observe quarantine. The baby should remain at home throughout the acute period of the disease. This will help prevent mass outbreaks of the disease in educational institutions. After normalization of health, the child can continue attending kindergarten.
• Strengthening the immune system is an important component of treating herpes infection. Regular hardening, proper nutrition, optimal physical activity, as well as proper rest and sleep contribute to the good functioning of the immune system. Any overload leads to physical and mental exhaustion of the baby, which contributes to the development of immunodeficiency.

At home

For many centuries, people have treated herpes on their own, without resorting to medications. Doctors recommend this treatment only for mild forms of the disease. It is quite dangerous for newborns and infants to use home therapy with traditional medicine. Before any use of medicinal plants, be sure to consult your doctor.

To eliminate the adverse symptoms of herpes, the following are used:

• Lotions made from lemon balm or mint. These products do an excellent job of eliminating itching and redness of damaged areas of the skin. To prepare the infusion, take 1 tablespoon of the raw material and pour a glass of boiling water over it, leave for about an hour. After this, cool the solution to a comfortable temperature. Lotions with lemon balm infusion can be used up to 3-6 times a day until the rash disappears completely.
• Propolis. This beekeeping product has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect and helps eliminate itching, as well as any redness. You can use propolis to treat herpetic blisters several times a day. This product is prohibited for use in children who are allergic to honey.
• Eucalyptus oil. It helps eliminate redness and itching in the affected areas. Eucalyptus oil has excellent antiseptic properties. Applying this product to herpetic rashes will help prevent the entry of pathogenic bacteria and the development of suppuration.
• Calendula decoction. This product is most often used in the form of lotions. To prepare, just take 1-1.5 tablespoons of crushed calendula flowers and pour 200 ml of boiling water. You need to insist for 40-50 minutes. Lotions with calendula are applied to damaged areas 3-4 times a day.
• Sea buckthorn oil. Promotes rapid healing of inflamed skin areas. You can treat rashes several times a day. Sea buckthorn oil is well applied to wound surfaces that form after rupture of herpetic vesicles. This simple and affordable remedy helps to effectively cope with redness and reduces the severity of skin itching.

You can learn more about herpes in the following video.

Herpes is a collective name for viral diseases caused by different types of herpes viruses. The herpes virus is polytropic, that is, it can infect almost any organ in the human body. To date, there are 8 known types of herpes that affect humans.

Children are susceptible to herpes just like adults. Most often, infection occurs from parents in the family or already sick children.

This disease comes in several types, however, primary herpes is typical for children. Babies in the first years of life get it extremely rarely, since they have immunity from their mother. They become more susceptible to the virus by the age of 3-4, but by about 5 years, 60% to 80% of them already have antibodies to it.

Types of herpes in children

It is worth distinguishing between herpes simplex viruses type 1. This is the most well-known type of herpes simplex virus, which appears on a child's lip and is characterized by a general malaise, sometimes with a slight fever. Oral ulcers are most common in children aged 1-2 years, but they can appear in people as young as at any age and at any time of the year.

The second type of herpes is genital, which manifests itself in a similar way. During childbirth, if the mother suffers from genital herpes, the baby may become infected as it passes through the birth canal. The manifestations of this type of herpes in children are more complex than in adults. Children may suffer from herpetic sore throat and stomatitis.

Herpes virus type 3 (varicella zoster virus) in children during primary infection causes chickenpox; in the secondary manifestation of the virus, the disease passes through as herpes zoster (shingles).

Herpes type 6 in children causes roseola infantile, a pink maculopapular rash. It mainly affects children under the age of 2 years. First, a fever develops, then the temperature decreases within 3-6 days. After the temperature drops, an exanthema appears on the skin - pink maculopapular rashes 1-3 mm in size, turning pale when pressed (this is one of the distinctive signs; with the same rubella, the rash does not turn pale after pressure). They may disappear within a few hours or may persist for up to several days. The rash is localized mainly on the body, spreading to the neck, face and limbs

Herpetic viruses of types 4, 5, 6 can cause infectious mononucleosis - an acute infectious disease characterized by fever, sore throat, enlarged lymph nodes, liver and spleen, lymphocytosis, and the appearance of atypical mononuclear cells in the peripheral blood.

Cytomegalovirus, a member of the herpesvirus type 6 family, is one of the most common viruses. Children usually become infected with cytomegalovirus infection in early childhood, for example, in a nursery or kindergarten. Transmission of cytomegalovirus can only occur through direct contact with an infected person. In addition, children can be infected with the virus during fetal development. The infected environment is blood, urine, saliva and other biological substrates. Typically, cytomegalovirus in healthy children is asymptomatic or accompanied by minor symptoms similar to those of mononucleosis and disappearing after a few days or weeks.

Human herpesvirus type 6 and type 7 during primary infection causes neonatal exanthema in infants. Only a specialist can accurately diagnose a child’s health condition.

Herpes in infants

Herpes in children can be more complex than in adults. Herpes is an insidious infection; herpes in an infant can cause severe damage to the nervous system and internal organs. When the visual organs are damaged, keratitis, phlebothrombosis, chorioretinitis, and iridocyclitis occur. If the ENT organs are damaged, sudden deafness, herpetic sore throat and damage to the inner ear may occur. Damage to the cardiovascular system manifests itself in the form of myocarditis, atherosclerosis and myocardiopathy. If the herpes virus penetrates the central nervous system, there is a risk of encephalopathy, meningitis, and nerve plexuses are affected. Herpes can also lead to schizophrenia and depressive disorders. On the part of the reproductive system, reproductive function, urethritis, prostatitis (in men), colpitis, endometritis and chorionitis (in women) are possible.

Herpes symptoms

Symptoms of herpes in children are traditional: there may be fever, fatigue, muscle pain, and irritability. Pain, burning, tingling and itching occur at the site of future infection rashes. The rash is accompanied by subsequent ulceration and the formation of wounds. Children tend to scratch wounds until they bleed, constantly touch them, and tear off the crusts that have formed, which complicates healing and prolongs its duration. At best, simple herpes on a child's lip heals within a few days. Ulcers can also occur in the mouth: on the gums, the front of the tongue, the inside of the cheeks, the throat and the roof of the mouth. The gums may be slightly swollen, red, and may bleed. They may also spread down the chin and neck. The lymph nodes in the neck often become swollen and painful. In children, the herpes virus can infect the mucous membrane of the throat with the formation of small ulcers and a grayish coating on the tonsils. Because the ulcers are painful, it may be difficult to eat or drink. A sick child should not eat solid or hot foods during the period of oral herpes. If the wound is constantly injured, healing may take two weeks or more. Parents need to control this process.

Treatment of herpes in children

To treat herpes infection, antiviral drugs, immunostimulants, and interferons are used. Treatment of infection must begin at the first suspicion of the disease, recovery depends on this, advanced infection becomes chronic or recurrent, and the likelihood of complications increases. Treatment of herpes in children is aimed at minimizing the manifestation of symptoms and suppressing the activity of the virus. For this, antiviral drugs are used - ointments and tablets that relieve itching and pain. It is necessary to take large amounts of fluid, as well as antipyretics when body temperature rises to high levels.

An antiviral drug used for herpes infection is acyclovir. This drug can be used either as an intravenous injection or as tablets. The method of administration of the drug depends on the severity of the disease and its form. The drug is administered intravenously at a dosage of 30-60 mg/kg of the child’s body weight, orally – 90 mg/kg. Taking the drug should be divided into 3-4 parts. This drug can also be used externally in the form of an ointment. It must be applied to the affected areas of the skin and mucous membranes 4-5 times a day.

Immunostimulating drugs help the child’s body fight the virus more effectively and prevent the virus from infecting new areas of the mucous membranes and internal organs. For treatment, you can use immunostimulating drugs such as Immunal, Groprinosin, Arpetol.

Interferons help destroy viruses and prevent them from multiplying uncontrollably. They can be used both in tablet form and in the form of suppositories. Suppositories are inserted into the child's anus 2 times a day for 5 days, the course is repeated 2-3 times with a break of 5 days.

If the disease recurs quite often, you need to contact an immunologist who will give qualified advice that can significantly increase the immunity of a weakened child. Among other things, treatment of herpes in children should be supervised by a doctor, since only a specialist can calculate the correct dosage that is safe for the child’s body.

The herpes virus, once in a child’s body, remains in it for life, periodically exacerbating, causing temporary discomfort. The main task of parents is to help the child, strictly following the instructions of the pediatrician. When solving an existing problem, special attention is paid to maintaining hygiene and providing the baby with individual means, such as a towel, soap, and a washcloth. The child should wash his hands more often. If there is herpes in the mouth, the child should not be allowed to injure herpes sores.

Prevention of herpes in children

To prevent herpes, you must follow the rules of personal hygiene and not use other people's personal belongings, and avoid close contact with people with herpes. To strengthen the child’s immune system, proper nutrition, vitamin therapy in the autumn-spring period, and the use of immunostimulating drugs in preventive doses in the winter are necessary. Preventive use of antiviral ointments during an influenza epidemic by putting it in the nose 1-2 times a day.