Herpetic infections that cause diseases in children. Herpes in children: treatment, symptoms. How to treat herpes on the body of a child Herpes in a child causes

The child's body is more often affected by pathogens of herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-I). Externally, herpetic infection in children is manifested by the growth of blisters with watery contents on the lips, nostrils, and in the oral cavity. Therapy is recommended to be carried out with immunomodulatory and antiviral drugs and folk remedies. It is important for parents and other adults to remember that viruses spread easily between people, so during the period of illness it is advisable to limit the circle of contacts of the sick child.

About 8 types of herpes viruses cause human diseases, five of them are better studied, and research on the next three is ongoing. Clinical manifestations of herpesvirus infection in children depend on the age of the young patients, immune status, place of entry of the pathogen and its typology. Primary infection is accompanied by more severe symptoms than relapses.

A child can be infected with each of the following genotypes of the virus:

1. HSV-I, II are the causative agents of herpes simplex.
2. Varicella zoster causes chickenpox and herpes zoster.
3. Epstein–Barr virus is the causative agent of infectious mononucleosis (rare).
4. Cytomegalovirus is the cause of infectious mononucleosis and hepatitis (rare).
5. Causative agents of sudden exanthema or “pseudo-rubella” (rare).

Primary infection almost always leads to the appearance of pronounced symptoms and a higher incidence of complications.

Various skin lesions, including the appearance of rashes on the face, provoke HSV-I and Varicella zoster. Herpetic stomatogingivitis and tonsillitis are caused by the first three types of viruses. Infection with HSV-I usually leads to changes in the mucous membranes in the throat and mouth. HSV-II usually causes genital infections and serious illness in newborns. The most common routes of infection with herpesviruses of the first and second types are through contact and household contact.

The activity of herpes infection in the body is facilitated by the following factors:

• hypothermia and overheating;
• hypo- and vitamin deficiencies;
• poor digestion;
• weak immunity;
• frequent colds;
• stress.

After infection, a herpes infection in a child manifests itself or becomes latent and remains in sensory neurons. Relapses of the disease are associated with both unfavorable external and internal changes. Reactivation of hepresvirus type 1 can follow oral trauma and unsuccessful dental procedures.

Causes and danger of children getting herpes simplex

Infection of the fetus occurs during intrauterine development through the placenta. A newborn becomes infected when passing through the birth canal, and after childbirth - through contact with the mother and medical staff. HSV-I is found in saliva and is transmitted through shared utensils and other objects. Diseases in children are often observed after the age of one year, by which time the effect of the mother’s antibodies in the baby’s body ends. If a child already attends a preschool institution, he becomes infected through toys and hygiene items.

The virus remains in the human body forever; treatment is aimed mainly at getting rid of the symptoms of the disease, preventing complications and relapses.

Often, primary infection with HSV-I is asymptomatic, but the virus “sleeps” in the child’s nerve cells - it is in a hidden form (latent). From time to time, it is reactivated in response to hypothermia, overheating, fever or other factors. A repeat outbreak of HSV-I often begins with a tingling, itching sensation in the area where there were previously blistering rashes.

The development of primary herpes infection of the second type in newborns is observed in the first weeks of life. The virus affects the central nervous system, skin, eyes and oropharynx. The generalized form of HSV-II often causes the development of herpetic pneumonia in the newborn. The addition of a bacterial and fungal infection leaves little hope for the baby’s recovery. Such forms of herpes require hospitalization of the patient. If relapses occur and they are less dangerous, then treatment is carried out at home.

Reactivation of HSV-II is manifested by the growth of blisters on the genitals and adjacent areas of the body - in the vagina, cervix, vulva, penis, buttocks and thighs.

Early age, lack of treatment, reduced immunity- the main causes of serious complications of herpes simplex in a child. Then stomatitis or tonsillitis occurs in a severe form, the herpes virus causes eye damage - conjunctivitis, keratitis. The most serious cases lead to diseases of the joints, internal organs, herpetic encephalitis or meningitis.

Signs of herpes type 1

When a primary HSV-I infection develops, inflammation of the oral mucosa begins, the gums, lymph nodes swell, and the temperature rises. Bubbles appear in the mouth, as in the photo. They then turn into ulcers and heal slowly over 7 to 14 days. During a relapse of herpes, sores around the mouth may develop.

In most cases, rashes due to HSV-I infection are localized in children in the oral cavity and oropharynx. The first type of virus causes herpetic stomatitis, affecting the red border of the lips and the area around them, and other parts of the face. But only 10–30% of HSV-I carriers develop symptoms that last 5–14 days. Viral shedding lasts approximately 3 weeks.

Clinical signs and symptoms of herpes infection in children:

• Sudden onset of illness, lethargy or irritability, fever.
• Increased drooling in infants, pain when sucking and swallowing.
• Redness, swelling of the gums, bleeding.
• Vesicles on the tongue, palate, gums, and sometimes on the lips.
• Reluctance to eat and/or drink.

Acute herpetic stomatitis is considered a common clinical manifestation of HSV-I in a child aged 6 months to 5 years. Herpes in children 2–3 years old is manifested by lethargy, malaise, redness and pain in the throat, and fever. Symptoms of herpes infection in the throat in children of primary school age and adolescents resemble pharyngotonsillitis. Lesions can spread to areas of the mucous membrane or skin if infected saliva gets on them. Complications often develop in the case of a primary infection; subsequently, the immune system usually copes with the virus.

Genital herpetic infection. Diagnosis of HSV

The second type of virus primarily affects the reproductive system, although this pathogen also causes oral herpes. If the infection occurs in utero or during the passage of the child through the birth canal, then the weakened baby begins to get sick immediately after birth. The incubation period averages 6 to 8 days.

Generalized herpes of newborns leads to damage to the most important organs and systems - nervous, digestive, cardiovascular.

The most severe disease occurs with intrauterine infection, infection of the child immediately before birth. Within a few days after birth, characteristic symptoms are observed - fever develops, rashes appear on the body. Signs of herpes include yellowing of the skin, darkening of the urine, and discoloration of the child's stool. The external genitalia are covered with vesicles. With the development of herpesvirus pneumonia, death is possible.

The doctor prescribes general blood analysis to determine changes in its composition. Swabs are taken from the mucous membranes to detect the virus. The diagnosis is most facilitated by blood tests using enzyme immunoassay or polymerase chain reaction (ELISA and PCR, respectively).

The final diagnosis is confirmed by isolation of the virus in tissue cultures. For adequate treatment, it is important to identify its genotype.

In the case of a generalized infection, the medical staff performs scrapings from the affected areas. Doctors prescribe spinal tap to examine the cerebrospinal fluid for signs of disease. In addition, they help to identify the degree of damage to individual organs electroencephalogram, ultrasound and other studies (MRI, CT).

Drug treatment of herpes infection

Children with a generalized form of herpes require hospitalization and intensive care. It is necessary to contact a pediatrician if, after discharge from the maternity hospital, the newborn develops a fever, rashes, redness and inflammation of the eyelids and mucous membranes of the eyes. When children over one year of age develop superficial lesions of the mouth, throat, and skin, treatment at home may be sufficient. During this period, it is necessary to prevent scratching of the blisters and scabs.

Children who experience discomfort due to sores in the mouth or lips are given paracetamol (acetaminophen). When a viral herpes infection develops in the oropharynx in children, the use of medications accelerates the healing of ulcers and reduces the risk of complications and relapses. Antiviral therapy is more often used in cases of generalized infection of newborns, genital herpes, a weakened immune system, and severe brain damage.

Doctors prescribe medications and select dosages in accordance with the age, body weight and condition of the child.

How to treat herpes of the first and second types in children:

1. Treatment of affected areas with antiseptic and anesthetic liquids (chlorhexidine, lidocaine).
2. Lotions with solutions of proteolytic enzymes to dissolve dead tissue (lysozyme).
3. Immunomodulatory medications based on interferon - suppositories, gel and ointment "Viferon".
4. Antiviral drug acyclovir - tablets orally, cream - externally.
5. Desensitizing therapy (fenkarol, pipolfen).
6. Applications from oil solutions of tocopherol and vitamin A, sea buckthorn oil.
7. Antiherpetic vaccination between relapses of the disease.

It is recommended to include in the diet of sick children dairy products, veal, poultry, rabbit, fish, vegetables, dried fruits, nuts. It is necessary to avoid foods and drinks that irritate the inflamed epithelium. The body must not be dehydrated, so they give apple juice and still mineral water.

Folk remedies

Alternative medicine suggests using medicinal plants and natural substances to treat herpes in children. Simple home procedures - compresses, baths, lotions - alleviate the condition and speed up recovery. The patient should be given separate dishes and towels to prevent the spread of infection in the family. The child can attend school, but in the event of primary infection, pediatricians recommend leaving children at home.

Content

The disease is mistakenly mistaken by some parents for a skin rash. Herpes infection in children is a common phenomenon; the herpes virus can enter the child’s body in the womb, during childbirth or immediately after birth; the pathology requires mandatory treatment when the first symptoms appear. Herpes affects not only the skin, but also other body tissues and internal organs. According to statistics, 80% of the entire population of the planet has HSV.

What is a herpetic infection

Herpes in a child is a whole group of diseases that are transmitted from one person to another. The simple form of the virus affects the skin, central nervous system, mucous membranes of the body, internal organs, and eyes. There are several types of pathogen, the most common is type I, which is also called simple. It causes the following pathologies: malaria on the lips, herpetic stomatitis.

Pathogen

Herpes infection in children develops when pathological microorganisms penetrate the human blood. In cells infected with the pathogen, intranuclear inclusions are formed, which trigger the process of formation of giant multinucleated cells. The infection is thermolabile, inactivated when reaching 50-52 degrees Celsius, cells are quickly destroyed under ultraviolet irradiation or X-rays. Organic solvents, ether, ethyl alcohol have a harmful effect; herpes is not susceptible to low temperatures and drying.

There are two serotypes of the pathogen based on their nucleic and antigenic composition:

1. 1st provokes the development of damage to the mucous membranes of the mouth, facial skin, central nervous system, and eyes.
2. The 2nd affects the membranes of the genital organs. There is a possibility of infection with both serotypes.

Classification

Herpesvirus infection in children is caused by different types of pathogens. This affects the course of the pathology, symptoms and prognosis. The following types of pathology are distinguished:

1. Virus of the first type. This is the most common type of pathogen, provokes the appearance of symptoms on the lips, the development of herpetic stomatitis, felon (on the fingers), viral encephalitis, sycosis, herpetic eczema, esophagitis, keratoconjunctivitis, herpetic sore throat.
2. Virus of the second type. More often it causes a genital type of disease. In children, it is usually diagnosed as neonatal herpes or disseminated infection. The first two types are also called herpes simplex.
3. The third type of pathogen becomes the cause of chickenpox, known to all parents. If it recurs, it can cause herpes zoster. It is most often diagnosed in adults, but it can also appear in children.
4. The fourth type of infection is called Epstein-Barr virus. It becomes the cause of a little-known pathology – infectious mononucleosis. Often it is mistaken for a cold and the correct diagnosis is not made; this type of pathogen sometimes becomes the cause of some oncological diseases.
5. Cytomegalovirus or type 5 herpes. According to some experts, every person in the world is infected with this infection, but not everyone knows about it, because the virus is in a persistent form and does not manifest itself in any way.
6. Roseolovirus or type 6. It provokes sudden exanthema, also known as roseola infantile.
7. Type 7 is identical to the previous version; in adults it causes chronic fatigue.
8. The latter type has been poorly studied; there is a theory that it provokes the development of Kaposi's sarcoma.

Methods of infection

The disease has a high degree of contagiousness. Herpes in a child’s blood can be detected due to infection through airborne droplets or contact infection. When there are blisters (papules) on the skin, the disease is most contagious. The fluid inside these papules contains a large number of viral particles. Herpes gets to a child, as a rule, when the baby communicates with a carrier or through household objects. The disease does not appear immediately and remains in the body asymptomatically for a long time; generalization occurs when the immune system is weakened.

Symptoms of herpes in children

Pathology has an incubation period - the period of time between the penetration of pathological microorganisms into the body and the appearance of the first signs of the disease. The herpes virus in a child manifests itself acutely; children have obvious symptoms of intoxication, even in a localized form. These symptoms include:

• poor appetite;
• increase in body temperature;
• muscle pain, anxiety, headache;
• lethargy, weakness and other signs of a pronounced decrease in motor activity;
• burning, itching of the skin;
• the appearance of a herpetic rash.

Herpes simplex

The most common type of virus is transmitted by airborne droplets and by contact with a carrier. The herpes virus in children manifests itself with the following symptoms:

• herpetic rash on mucous membranes and skin: fingers, lips, nose, mouth;
• moodiness and weakness;
• enlarged lymph nodes;
• chills;
• general malaise.

Chicken pox

Almost all children suffer from chickenpox and tolerate it much more easily than adults. May recur in older age in the form of herpes zoster. The pathology has the following symptoms:

• intoxication of the body;
• vesicles (bubbles) throughout the body;
• temperature increase.

Genital herpes

In most cases, it is transmitted from the mother to the child during childbirth. Infection occurs inside the womb or during passage through the birth canal. Viral herpes in children is also called neonatal. The clinical picture of the disease depends on the form of infection:

1. Localized is manifested by damage to the lips, skin of the mouth, eyes and mucous membranes.
2. A generalized infection has a full range of symptoms: cyanosis, lethargy, apnea, shortness of breath, regurgitation, fever.
3. The damaging form affects the nervous system and can provoke meningoencephalitis, hydrocephalus, and microcephaly. Characteristic signs: convulsions, trembling, cytosis, loss of appetite.

Epstein-Barr virus

This type of herpes provokes infectious mononucleosis and attacks the lymphoid system. There is a theory that it causes a number of cancers. A diagnosis can only be made through a blood test. The disease is dangerous because in newborns it is sometimes asymptomatic. The main signs of this type of herpesvirus pathology include:

• sore throat;
• enlarged lymph nodes, adenoids;
• temperature increase;
• enlarged spleen and liver.

Cytomegalovirus infection

After the infection penetrates, the child becomes a virus carrier, the disease will be in a latent state without obvious signs. When the immune defense is weakened, the herpes virus infection will be activated and the following symptoms will appear:

• headaches, muscle pain;
• chills;
• signs of intoxication;
• Damage to the central nervous system and internal organs (lungs, liver, glands) may be present.

Roseolovirus

This pathology received a second name - pseudorubella. This type of herpes virus infection provokes the following symptoms:

• rashes all over the body of small pink papules;
• temperature increase;
• symptoms similar to allergies, acute respiratory infections.

Diagnosis of herpetic infection

An experienced doctor will determine the presence of herpes by visual signs, but laboratory testing may also be needed to make a diagnosis. The diagnosis of this pathology is based on clinical signs. The doctor differentiates characteristic vesicular rashes against the background of intoxication of the body, enlargement of regional lymph nodes. The exact type of herpes can be determined using a blood test.

Herpetic rashes

This is a typical and obvious sign of herpes in the baby’s blood. A herpetic rash in children appears on the mucous cavities and skin in the form of vesicles with a clear liquid inside. This characteristic symptom develops gradually, after 3 days the contents of the bubbles become cloudy, the papules burst, and an ulcer or open wound forms. After some time, they dry out and become covered with a crust, which disappears after a few days and the rash goes away without a trace. The affected areas usually hurt, itch, and have a burning sensation.

Temperature with herpes in children

This symptom is not specific for herpesvirus pathology, which can complicate the diagnostic process. A rise in temperature and intoxication often precede a rash, this especially often occurs in children, so these signs can be mistaken for symptoms of acute respiratory infections. The intensity of the temperature increase depends on the location of the lesion; the values ​​can be either normal or rise to 40 degrees.

The highest numbers are observed when the mucous membranes of a child are affected. Initially, a rise in temperature is preceded by chills, overexcitability, and tearfulness. Then a sharp jump begins to 39-40 degrees. Only after this does a characteristic small rash and itching appear on the body. There may be slight temperature fluctuations throughout the day.

To make a final diagnosis and clarify the type of herpetic infection, laboratory tests are used. The attending physician prescribes tests using the following methods:

• complement fixation reaction;
• enzyme immunoassay in paired sera;
• polymerase chain reaction (PCR);
• indirect immunofluorescence.

The presence of a herpes infection will be confirmed by an increase in IgM titer over 4 times. A recurrent type of pathology will be confirmed by a fourfold increase in IgG titer. Detection and identification of infectious agents can be carried out using virological examination of fluid from vesicles, erosion scrapings, nasopharyngeal washouts, cerebrospinal fluid, urine, blood, ejaculate or brain biopsies (in case of death).

Treatment of herpes in children

Therapy for the pathology should be prescribed by the attending physician based on the examination and tests performed. The prognosis of treatment depends on the form of the disease, the following options are distinguished:

1. Congenital herpes has a poor prognosis. Severe developmental defects lead to the death of the child within a few months. There are frequent cases of intrauterine fetal death and spontaneous abortions.
2. If a newborn is infected during passage through the birth canal, the prognosis is positive, provided that timely antiviral treatment is provided.
3. The acquired nature of the disease very rarely causes dangerous complications. Acyclovir therapy provides long-term remission of the pathology.

Any suspicion of the development of herpetic pathology in a child should be a reason to go to the hospital. Self-medication can lead to serious complications and even death. The treatment regimen prescribed by the doctor implies the exact implementation of all recommendations from beginning to end. There is no alternative to antiviral drugs, so they must be taken.

How to treat herpes in children

Therapy is carried out using a complex method, using antiviral drugs, immunomodulating medications and restorative procedures. If there is severe discomfort due to the rash, children are given Paracetamol. Medicines help speed up the healing process of ulcers, the development of relapses and complications of infection. Antiviral therapy is urgently needed in cases of generalized disease, weakened immunity, in the case of genital herpes, and severe brain damage.

The dosage and specific drug are selected in accordance with the child’s body weight, age and condition. The following directions are used for treatment:

• lotions with proteolytic enzymes to remove dead tissue;
• treatment of affected areas with antiseptic and painkillers;
• means for strengthening the immune system based on interferon;
• Acyclovir therapy;
• desensitizing therapy;
• antiherpetic vaccine to produce antibodies to avoid reactivation of the infection and the transition to chronic herpetic pathology;
• diet therapy.

How to treat herpes

The basis of therapy is antiviral treatment and strengthening the child’s immunity. A course of medications is prescribed for children even under 1 year of age to prevent the development of complications and sometimes death. The following groups of drugs are used:

Herpes, skin manifestations of herpes - what you need to know? Advice for parents - Union of Pediatricians of Russia. Watch the video

Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials in the article do not encourage self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and give treatment recommendations based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

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Herpes infection in children - causes, types, symptoms and treatment methods

Viral infections pose a serious danger to children; in particular, the herpes virus is not at all as harmless as it seems, and in addition to external manifestations, it can affect internal organs, the nervous system and cause other serious complications. .

And if in the first months of life the baby’s body is still protected by the mother’s immunity and antibodies to the virus, which he receives through breast milk, then later this protection weakens. Herpes is especially often diagnosed in a child at 2 years of age, but by the age of 5, the child’s body begins to produce its own antibodies that are able to resist the virus.

What are the symptoms of a herpes infection in young children? What are the main features of the disease and how to treat herpes in a child to prevent possible complications? We will try to answer these questions in our article.

In most cases, a child becomes infected in a group of children or through contact with adult carriers of the virus. The baby can easily become infected from the mother if she has a relapse of the disease and an exacerbation of the herpetic infection occurs.

This is especially true for infants, since during this period it is impossible to stop contact between the baby and the mother and take precautions that would guarantee the absence of infection. In addition, any person whose virus is in a latent (inactive) form and has no visible manifestations can become a source of infection, without knowing it.

The virus is transmitted as follows:

• Airborne droplets. When a person with herpes or who is a carrier of it coughs or sneezes, the virus spreads through the air and easily enters the baby’s body through the mucous membranes.
• Bytovym. This type of virus transmission is most common in families where personal hygiene rules are violated. That is, family members use common dishes, cutlery, towels, and bed linen.
• Perinatal. From a mother infected with the virus, the infection is transmitted to the child during childbirth.
• During medical procedures (during blood transfusion).

According to statistics, out of 100 newborns whose mothers first became infected with the herpes virus during pregnancy, up to 50% of babies are born with congenital herpes virus infection. This can have the most dire consequences for the child. If during pregnancy a woman experiences a relapse of the disease, then this practically does not affect the child, since the mother’s body already has a developed immunity to the virus.

Associated factors that provoke the appearance or exacerbation of herpetic manifestations are:

• Colds
• Hypothermia
• Weakening of the immune system
• Poor nutrition, lacking the nutrients and vitamins the child needs
• Stress factor
• Environmental influence (infection occurs more often in the autumn - winter period)

The herpes virus comes in many varieties, the most common being the types that cause cold sores and chicken pox. In fact, there are many more types of herpesvirus and each of them has its own characteristics. A child can become infected with any type of pathogen, so parents need to know the main symptoms of the disease and methods of fighting the infection.

Types of Herpes

Today, scientists know more than 200 varieties of herpesvirus, of which the most common and well-studied are 6 types:

All types of herpesvirus infections in children pose a serious danger and require timely treatment, as they can cause serious complications.

The danger of herpes in young children

Infants and newborns usually have immunity to the virus, which they receive from their mother, but already from 1-2 years of age this protection weakens. Herpes in a 3 year old child life appears as a result of the fact that the child’s own immune system is still weak and cannot resist infection. In some cases, the consequence of infection can be serious complications affecting internal organs and body systems. Complications caused by the herpes virus include the following conditions:

• Herpetic eye lesions (keratitis, iridocyclitis, uveitis, corneal erosion)
• Ear lesions, often resulting in deafness
• Herpetic sore throat, stomatitis, gingivitis
• Damages of the cardiovascular system (myocarditis)
• Lesions of the nervous system (neuritis, paralysis of the limbs) and brain (encephalitis, meningitis)
• Damage to internal organs (liver, kidneys, spleen)

All of the above complications are very serious and difficult to cope with even for an adult. In a child with a weak immune system, they can be life-threatening and, in severe cases, result in disability.

Diagnostics

The specialist makes a diagnosis based on the general clinical picture and a number of laboratory and instrumental studies confirming the presence of the virus in the body. The main diagnostic methods are:

When making a diagnosis, it is important to differentiate herpes from other viral diseases with similar symptoms (ARVI, rubella, allergic reactions, dermatological diseases accompanied by the appearance of rashes). A correct diagnosis made in time will allow timely initiation of therapy. The pediatrician will advise parents and explain how to treat herpes in a child.

Main symptoms

From the moment of infection to the first symptoms of herpes, a certain time passes (incubation period), which can range from several days to 2 weeks. Then characteristic symptoms appear, corresponding to the type of herpes infection.

Cold herpes

Type 1 herpes begins with a sensation of tingling, burning, itching and redness in the area where the rash subsequently appears. The primary stage is accompanied by general malaise: increased temperature, fever, headache, and enlarged lymph nodes. These symptoms resemble those of a cold, but parents soon notice other signs of infection. Herpes on the lip of a child is manifested by the appearance of small itchy blisters filled with transparent contents.

After some time, they open and release liquid containing the virus in high concentration. At this time, you need to ensure that the child does not touch the resulting erosion with his hands, this can lead to further spread of the infection. After a few more days, the weeping sores begin to dry out and become covered with a crust, which soon disappears.

With primary infection, the development of herpetic stomatitis is possible, when painful blisters form on the tonsils and palate. Herpes in a child's mouth leads to the fact that the baby becomes capricious and sleeps poorly. Painful erosions that form at the site of burst blisters cause refusal to eat and lack of appetite. In case of weakened immunity, primary infection with the virus can lead to the development of complications associated with damage to internal organs.

Genital herpes

Herpes of the second type is especially dangerous for a child, since infection most often occurs in utero, when a pregnant woman gets herpes. If the expectant mother is infected for the first time, then the risk of severe complications in the fetus is very high.

The first symptoms in a newborn appear within 2 days after birth. Characteristic blistering rashes appear throughout the body, the temperature rises, febrile conditions occur, and the lymph nodes enlarge. The child is diagnosed with developmental defects of the nervous system, liver, heart, and pancreas. Rashes and sores appear on the genitals. After a few days, jaundice develops, convulsions may appear, and the risk of developing viral pneumonia increases, with a high degree of death.

Herpes in a child, types 3 - 6

Herpes virus type 3 causes chickenpox, accompanied by characteristic rashes throughout the body, high fever, chills, and weakness. After treatment for chickenpox, the virus remains in the body and reminds itself of itself with relapses of herpes zoster, when, when the immune system is weakened, blistering rashes appear on the back, along the nerve fibers. Herpes zoster is accompanied by intense itching, fever and severe pain.

Type 4 virus causes infectious mononucleosis, manifested by sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. Herpes in a child's throat accompanied by painful rashes in the oral cavity, fever, enlarged lymph nodes (mainly cervical), liver and spleen. Infectious mononucleosis can occur with complications affecting almost all internal organs and systems of the body (nervous, pulmonary, cardiovascular).

Herpes type 5 is a cytomegalovirus infection. The virus invades the body and waits in the wings, manifesting itself with a decrease in immunity as a common respiratory infection (ARVI). This type of virus poses a danger when a pregnant woman is infected, resulting in an intrauterine infection. In this case, the child dies or is born with severe damage to the central nervous system.

Herpes type 6 in children becomes the cause of exanthema, the manifestations of which resemble rubella. The disease begins acutely, with a sharp increase in temperature and the appearance of a pale pink rash on the body, dense to the touch and slightly raised above the surface of the skin. In this case, damage to the mucous membranes of the oral cavity is noted. Herpes in a child's mouth manifests itself as a painful rash on the soft palate and tongue, as a result of which the child becomes restless, often cries and refuses to eat.

Treatment of the disease

Treatment of herpesvirus infections in children should be comprehensive. The doctor selects a treatment regimen and dosage of drugs on an individual basis, depending on the age, weight and condition of the child. What is included in complex therapy?

To strengthen and support the child’s body, a nutritious diet containing the necessary nutrients and vitamins is recommended. Preference should be given to dairy products, dietary meat, fish, vegetables and fruits. Doctors advise sticking to plenty of drinking water, this will help remove toxins from the body. You need to give your child compotes, juices, fruit drinks, decoctions, and rehydration solutions. This will eliminate dehydration and relieve intoxication.

For generalized forms of infection, congenital herpes and severe disease accompanied by complications, treatment is carried out in a hospital.

Treatment with folk remedies

As additional measures, you can use traditional medicine. This will help ease the course of the disease and speed up recovery. To avoid allergic reactions or other complications, you should consult your doctor before using traditional recipes.

The following measures will help prevent recurrences of cold herpes in a child:

Since the virus is transmitted in different ways, including household ones, parents need to teach their children to maintain personal hygiene from a very early age. The child should keep his hands clean and know that he can only use his own towel, toothbrush, clothes and other personal items.

In the winter season, parents can give their child drugs that stimulate the immune system as a preventative measure. Such drugs should be prescribed by the attending physician.

Herpes is a dangerous viral disease. If left untreated, it affects the nervous system and internal organs. Most often, the herpes virus is found in the blood of children over two years of age. Timely diagnosis and the correct approach to therapy will help prevent the development of complications.

Features of the disease in childhood

The herpes virus is considered one of the most common problems faced by parents of babies. The younger the child is, the more harm the infection can cause to his body. Only after reaching 5 years of age do the human body begin to produce antibodies that resist the harmful effects of the virus.

The infection is localized in the nerve ganglia. Because of this, it is difficult to treat. Strong antiviral drugs are unable to reach viruses. They fight only those that come to the surface and cause unpleasant symptoms.

Herpes in a child leads to a weakening of the body's protective functions. Because of this, the infection contributes to the development of complications. With proper therapy, the process can be restrained and the pathogen transferred to a latent state. The virus lives in the human body for years without manifesting itself. It is impossible to completely cope with the disease.

This problem is rare in newborns. With mother's milk, the baby also receives antibodies that resist the disease. After a year of life, the body is most susceptible to infection. Therefore, during this period, parents need to monitor compliance with preventive measures. If an adult is a carrier of the virus, then when communicating with a child he should wear a gauze bandage, not kiss the baby, wash his hands as often as possible and monitor hygiene.

Types of disease

Today, scientists know for certain about the existence of 80 types of herpes. Eight of them pose a particular danger to humans. Depending on the characteristics of the pathogen, the following types of disease are distinguished:

• Herpes type 1 or simple. Rashes often appear on the lips, nose, oral mucosa, and fingers. The incubation period varies from three days to several weeks.
• Herpes type 2 or HSV The disease affects the genitals. This form of infection rarely appears in a child. Infection occurs during the passage of the fetus through the birth canal. In boys, characteristic rashes appear on the glans penis, and in girls, on the mucous surface of the labia.
• Herpes type 3. This infection in children is caused by the herpes virus varicella zoster. The disease is often called chickenpox. If the child is vaccinated, the disease is mild. In some cases, infection ends in shingles.
• Herpes type 4. After the Epstein-Barr virus enters the child's body, mononucleosis develops. In this case, serious damage to the lymphatic system is observed. The body's immune system is severely affected. An accurate diagnosis in such a situation can only be made after laboratory diagnostics. Epstein-Barr virus is detected in 50% of cases. If its concentration in the blood is not high, then symptoms do not appear.
• Herpes type 5. This type of infection is more common in children under 2 years of age. The disease develops against the background of cytomegalovirus entering the body. The incubation period is one to two months. At first, there are no symptoms at all. In this case, the child becomes a carrier of infection. He is dangerous to others. Because of this, outbreaks of infection often occur in kindergartens, where children are in close contact with each other.
• Herpes type 6 in children. Causes rosella or exanthema. This problem is sometimes called pseudorubella. It is accompanied by the appearance of small pink bubbles on the skin. If you press lightly on them, they become pale. At the beginning, the symptoms of the problem mislead doctors, as they strongly resemble ARVI. Only after the appearance of rashes can a more accurate diagnosis be made. The infection does not pose a danger to the child and is easily tolerated.
• Herpes types 7 and 8. These infections have only recently been identified. They have not yet been studied enough, but it has already been proven that these types of viruses lead to the development of symptoms of chronic fatigue, depression, and in severe cases, cancer.

The most common viruses are types 1 and 2. The doctor can accurately determine the treatment program only after conducting diagnostic measures. Sometimes experts recommend not treating the virus at all; it goes into a latent form on its own.

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Main routes of infection

The main reason for the development of herpes is the entry of a virus into the body. Experts identify several routes of infection:

• In direct contact with a sick person. The herpes simplex virus HSV1 is most often transmitted this way. It hides in the body for a long time. Under certain circumstances, it becomes activated and characteristic symptoms appear.
• During contact with infected household items. The virus is quite tenacious and remains viable outside the human body for a long time. Therefore, it is extremely important that the child does not use other people’s hygiene items, towels, bed linen, toys, and so on.
• Herpes in children can appear after a low-quality blood transfusion or complex medical procedures.
• Some types of herpes are transmitted to the baby during fetal development from an infected mother. The virus penetrates the placental barrier.
• The herpes virus can also appear in a child during childbirth. It is transmitted from a sick mother during the passage of the fetus through the birth canal.

Before starting to treat the disease, it is necessary to determine the cause and eliminate it. Otherwise, re-infection will occur, and the concentration of viruses in the baby’s blood will increase.

The disease is especially dangerous during pregnancy, as it can cause complications during childbirth and even miscarriage. Therefore, expectant mothers need to carefully monitor their health.

What factors provoke the re-development of the disease?

Herpes in children can remain latent for a long time. Factors that provoke active reproduction of viruses and the appearance of characteristic symptoms include:

• Cold. The immune system, which is not yet fully formed, devotes all its efforts to restoring health, which allows the herpervirus to go on the offensive.
• Poor nutrition. If there are not enough vegetables, berries and fruits in the baby’s diet, there is a vitamin deficiency. As a result, the body's protective functions are weakened.
• Overheat. This often happens when traveling to hot countries or when spending a long time on the beach.
• Exacerbation of chronic diseases.

Recurrence of viral herpes in children is possible at any age. Strict adherence to all prevention rules will help to avoid this.

Symptoms

Depending on the type of disease, herpes manifests itself differently. The only similar sign is the characteristic rash. They have different textures, localization and shade.

Signs of the first type of disease

Herpes type 1 is characterized by the appearance of small blisters. They are concentrated in groups and localized in the lip area. The following signs of a problem are noted:

• Severe itching and burning appears in the affected area.
• The lips become unnaturally red and swollen.
• Temperature increases with herpes are rare. In some cases, it stops at 38 degrees.
• Lymph nodes increase in size.
• The child feels tired, is often capricious, and constantly wants to sleep.

The bubbles burst a couple of days after they appear. The liquid that is in them flows out. At this moment, the child is dangerous to others. Therefore, during treatment he should not be taken to school, kindergarten or other crowded places.

Symptoms of the second type of disease

Infection with herpervirus type 2 occurs during the fetal development of the baby or its passage through the birth canal. In some cases, the infection is transmitted through household contact. The following symptoms appear:

• Rash localized in the genital area.
• Slight increase in body temperature.
• The genitals swell and their color changes.

The average duration of illness is ten days. In especially severe cases, it can last up to a month.

Manifestations of type 3 infection

The incubation period of the disease (“chickenpox”) is about three weeks. After this, the following symptoms appear:

• Increase in body temperature to 40 degrees.
• Severe headaches.
• A rash appears on the face and body.
• The blisters that form are very itchy and cause severe discomfort to the baby.

In this case, the baby becomes a carrier of infection, so he must be isolated from everyone who has not had chickenpox. On average, therapy will take about two weeks.

Signs of the fourth type of herpes

Such herpes in a child often manifests itself as mononucleosis. This problem is not dangerous, but its treatment will require a lot of time. It is characterized by the following manifestations:

• Lethargy, fatigue, weakness.
• The appearance of a strong dry cough.
• Pain in muscles and joints.
• Increased size of lymph nodes.
• Pain in the larynx when swallowing.
• The liver and spleen may become enlarged.

When herpes is detected in children, treatment should only be prescribed by a doctor. Symptoms of herpes are small blistering rashes; in children, the disease most often occurs in the form of a cold on the lips, which should be treated as prescribed by a pediatrician or dermatologist. You can become infected with this disease through airborne droplets after contact with a carrier or a sick person. The herpes virus can cause several different diseases, affecting different tissues and organs.

What parents need to know about childhood herpes on the body

There is certain information that any adult should know to protect their child from infection.

• Thanks to the mother's immunity, which is transmitted in utero to the child, children under three years of age are rarely susceptible to this disease. In cases where the mother is a carrier of the genital form of herpes, the disease is transmitted during labor.
• The virus enters the child’s body without awakening symptoms, settling in the nervous system. As soon as the body becomes weakened, herpes begins to appear on the skin and mucous membrane. It actively reproduces and is transmitted to others. After treatment is completed, there will be no signs of the disease left on the body and mucous membranes. The virus will hide in the nerve ganglia.

• Once a child is infected with such a virus, he will remain susceptible to this disease.
• A dormant virus is not contagious.
• The disease manifests itself not only on the lips and around the mouth, but also on the cheeks, nose, thighs and buttocks, fingers and genitals.
• Usually the disease manifests itself in one place, less often the location changes during a new exacerbation.

Prevention of herpes in children

Methods for preventing type 1 viruses include:

• isolation of a sick child from peers as soon as the disease begins to manifest itself;
• elimination of the infectious focus;
• taking desensitizing medications during the epidemic period;
• the use of antiviral ointments for placement in the nasal cavity during epidemics;
• gymnastics, increasing immunity, hardening procedures;
• taking vitamins and minerals.

In addition, it is necessary to carry out preventive measures that are aimed against genital herpes.

It is necessary to identify a pregnant woman with an increased risk of developing intrauterine infection of the fetus and the possibility of infection during labor.

Use cesarean section if infection occurs two months or less before birth. If infection occurs in the early stages, then it is allowed to give birth naturally. But starting from the thirtieth week, treatment with acyclovir is recommended, after consultation with a gynecologist. If the infection is severe, it is necessary to be treated regardless of the duration.

Diagnosis of the virus in a child

The main measures for establishing a diagnosis and subsequent treatment of the disease are:

1. Blood test using ELISA or PCR for viral antigens, followed by genotype identification.
2. Analysis for changes in cell number and protein in the blood.
3. Taking a sample for the herpes virus manifestation, as well as smears from the mucous membranes.
4. During generalized infections, a cerebrospinal fluid sample is taken, as well as scrapings from the affected area.
5. Carrying out computed tomography, MRI, ultrasound to determine the extent of damage to internal organs.

If children between the third and fifth years of life have reduced immunity or there is no treatment, the virus can cause serious complications:

• pharyngitis;
• stomatitis;
• damage to the gastrointestinal tract.

Moreover, such diseases occur in a very severe form and if they are not treated in time, the child’s health can deteriorate greatly.

But parents need to remember that any tablets or ointment that are used as medications must be prescribed by a doctor.

Intestinal ulceration often occurs in older children. Herpesvirus can cause disruption of the central nervous system, pneumonia in the newborn, and kidney failure. If these diseases are not treated, death is possible.

Types of childhood herpes

There are more than two hundred varieties of this virus, but the child’s body is exposed to infection with six herpes viruses, these include:

• virus of the first and second types, leading to rashes in the form of transparent blisters at the site through which the infection occurred. For children, this is the oral cavity, since the disease is transmitted through unwashed hands, household items or products;
• herpes of the third type provokes chickenpox; in children who have been ill, it sometimes gives way to shingles on the body;
• Epstein-Barr virus causes infectious mononucleosis in a child, the treatment of which must be carried out in a timely manner, since the disease is asymptomatic in adolescence;

• cytomegalovirus also causes an infection that does not cause any consequences of infection;
• The sixth type virus causes exanthema in a child, which is often confused with rubella and begins to be treated erroneously. Since self-treatment does not bring positive results, parents turn to dermatologists, who prescribe the necessary tablets and ointment.

All of the above viruses are very common in children, but the first three varieties cause the most trouble. It is because of them that diseases with pronounced symptoms begin to develop. Very often, various kinds of complications arise, the treatment of which can drag on for a long period of time if you do not promptly seek the help of a qualified specialist.

Complications such as meningitis, encephalitis and other severe forms must be treated in a hospital under the supervision of doctors. To treat stomatitis, ointment and tablets prescribed by a doctor are used.

The dosage of any medications is determined by the doctor, depending on the age and individual characteristics of the child. It is not recommended to start treatment without consulting a specialist. Incorrectly selected tablets or ointment can cause complications.

When treating diseases that arise from the first type of virus, the following measures are used:

1. High-calorie diet, consumption of fermented milk products, meat, seafood, vegetables, dried fruits.
2. Frequent drinking.
3. Antihistamine and desensitizing tablets - tavegil, diazolin.
4. Therapies aimed at restoring strength and stabilizing the condition.
5. Antiviral medications based on interferon, as well as acyclovir ointment on infected areas of the body and orally in tablet form.
6. Correction of immunity – immunal, thymolin, histaglobin.
7. Introduction of antiherpetic vaccine.
8. Physiotherapy.

In addition, local treatment is necessary. To do this, lips are treated with antiseptic solutions, compresses and lotions are applied to the affected areas on the body. An ointment with an antiviral effect is applied in the form of applications.

To treat an acquired or congenital disease caused by a type 2 virus, it is necessary:

• take acyclovir;

• use Viferon and immunoglobulin;
• use Zovirax, iododioxyuridine.

Traditional medicine uses certain methods to ease the course of infection in children and to speed up the recovery process:

1. Children under one year old are allowed to make a lotion from celandine juice, which is applied for two to three minutes.
2. Lubricate the infected areas daily with raw quail egg white.
3. Drink lemon balm tincture.
4. Applying a compress of grated potato tuber, apple or garlic.
5. Wiping the infected area with aspen or onion juice.
6. Lubricating ulcers with alcohol tincture of propolis, which is previously diluted with water.
7. Mixed vegetable and eucalyptus oils are rubbed into the skin.
8. Application of sea buckthorn oil.
9. Using toothpaste at the initial stage of the disease.

Symptoms and treatment of herpes in children of the first and second year of life

Diseases in children under one year of age are much more complex than in adults. Moreover, children are not recommended to take pills or use strong medications. Herpes in an infant can cause severe complications that will have to be treated for the rest of their lives.

Symptoms for newborns and children under one year of age are traditional; they can manifest themselves in the form of:

• fever;
• fatigue;
• muscle pain;
• irritability;
• burning and itching on the body.

All rashes subsequently turn into sores and sores. To prevent the child from scratching the blisters, doctors prescribe antiallergic tablets or ointment, which can relieve itching and speed up healing. Typically, herpes on the lips in children heals within a few days after the first appearance. Also, the disease can spread to the mucous membrane of the throat, then the baby is not allowed to eat solid or hot food until complete healing. Parents must control this process.

The disease must be treated immediately after the first sign appears. Because children of the first and second year of life have fragile immunity, recovery depends on timely treatment. An advanced infection will certainly acquire a chronic or recurrent form, which threatens further complications.

To eliminate herpetic infections, a specialist will prescribe antiviral tablets, approved for children of the 1st and 2nd year of life. Treatment of infections in young children is aimed at minimizing symptoms and suppressing viral activity. To do this, you should purchase ointment and tablets that can relieve the child’s burning and painful sensations. It is worth making sure that the baby drinks as many liquids as possible and give antipyretic tablets if the temperature rises.

The main antiviral drug approved for children is acyclovir. It is sold in pharmacies as an ointment, tablets or intravenous injection. The administration of tablets or injections depends on the severity of the disease and its form. The ointment is applied to the affected areas of the skin up to five times a day. Any medicine or ointment is given to a child only with the permission of the attending physician. Self-medication is unacceptable, as it can lead to serious complications.