Symptoms of infection with the herpes virus in children. Herpes virus in children: symptoms and treatment of the disease. What are the symptoms of CMVI

Herpes in children has congenital and acquired forms. In addition, congenital infection also has forms. There are only six types of herpes that affect the child most often. With herpes in children, a special approach to treatment is required. Very often, the symptoms of a herpes infection in childhood are more aggressive than in adults, due to the fact that the body first encounters the virus and childhood herpes passes in an acute form. And in adults, herpes infection usually becomes recurrent. In the article we will look at the types of herpes in a child, talk about the treatment of viral herpes in children, touch on prevention, transmission routes and possible complications of childhood herpes.

There are over two hundred strains of the herpes virus, but children are most susceptible to six of them. The first three are the most common of these six precisely when the child's body is affected, let's look at them in more detail.

1. HSV type 1 (herpes simplex virus type 1) - herpes labialis. It affects the skin of different localization. Very often it gets enough sleep in the form of a blistering rash in the lips, fingers, eyes or face. This strain of herpesvirus can manifest itself in different parts of the body, but the most common manifestation is "".
2. HSV type 2 (herpes simplex virus type 2) - genital herpes. This type of herpes usually affects children's genitals or areas near the genitals. But type 1 HSV can also appear in the genital area, and type 2 HSV can give symptoms similar to the first. To understand which type of herpes simplex has manifested, laboratory diagnostics is necessary.
3. Varicella zoster is a type 3 herpes virus. The Varicella zoster virus causes chicken pox in childhood. Chickenpox usually occurs in the vast majority of children, and if the child is vaccinated, it occurs in a mild form. In some cases, this strain can cause shingles in a child if the child has a relapse after having chickenpox.
4. Epstein-Barr virus is the 4th type of human herpesvirus. In children, it usually causes infectious mononucleosis. More than 50% of children are infected with this strain of herpes. Mononucleosis in most children is mild, sometimes with little or no symptoms.
5. Cytomegalovirus is the 5th type of herpes virus. This type of herpesvirus causes CMVI (cytomegalovirus infection). Often the disease is asymptomatic and does not cause serious complications. Almost all people are affected by this virus and are its carriers. With serious violations of the immune system, the fifth type can lead to complications.
6. Herpes viruses type 6 - HHV-6A, HHV-6B. The human herpes virus can cause many diseases. In children, it is HHV-6B that actively manifests itself, it causes. The disease is quite common in children, but is usually mild.

Of all the strains of the herpes virus described above, the first two, which are combined into one species and are called the herpes simplex virus (herpes simplex), and the chickenpox virus are the most common culprits in the defeat of the child's body.

Ways of infection with childhood herpes

The causes of herpes in children and the ways of transmission of the virus do not differ from the methods of getting viral cells into an adult body, except for intrauterine infection or infection of a child during childbirth. There are five ways herpesvirus can be transmitted to children:

1. Airborne way. Herpes in children often occurs due to the fact that loved ones who have a latent form of herpes infection surround the baby. When sneezing or free release of herpes cells from the mucous membranes, it can spread through the air.
2. Household way or direct contact. With the general use of household items, the virus is transmitted through household items. And also with relapses of the disease, direct contact of an infected person with a healthy one provokes the herpes virus to penetrate into a new organism.
3. Blood transfusion, organ transplantation. If a child undergoes such complex operations as an organ transplant, there is a high probability of transplanting an infected element. More frequent medical manipulations are to infect a child during a blood transfusion.
4. Vertical transmission route (perinatal). In this case, the virus enters the child at the time when the baby passes through the birth canal. Very often, the herpes virus type 6 is transmitted in this way.
5. Transplacental - through the placenta. When a pregnant woman does not have antibodies to any virus in her blood, and becomes infected during pregnancy, the herpes virus can cross the placenta, and the baby will already be born infected.

Despite the fact that there are five ways of infecting herpes in children, the mother of the baby is the cause of the most frequent infection of the child. When a small child is surrounded by the care of the mother, and she often kisses him, or licks the spoon and nipple, the herpes of the infected mother quickly enters the child's body. At first, it causes herpetic stomatitis in a child up to a year old, and then begins to recur in different parts of the skin. Relapses, as a rule, begin from the age of 5, when the immune response is formed. In children from one to three years of age, relapses occur less frequently. But this applies to VPG.

Symptoms of a herpes infection in a child

Let's look at what herpes looks like in children and general symptoms in viruses that do not give external signs.

herpes simplex virus

With the herpes simplex virus, the symptoms are similar to a cold on the lips, wherever they get enough sleep. This is a herpetic rash, which manifests itself as follows:

• the temperature may rise;
• general malaise of the baby;
• tingling, itching, burning in the affected area;
• then small bubbles appear;
• bubbles burst and form sores;
• they eventually crust over and heal.

The photo under No. 1 and 2 shows how a herpes infection in children spreads on the lips. It can also appear in the corners of the lips.

In the photo under number 3, you can see how herpes manifested itself on the baby's finger - this is called. The photo under No. 4 shows, which can be localized on the cheeks, ears, chin and other areas of the face associated with the facial nerve.

In the photo number 5 and 6, the herpes simplex virus struck the child's genitals. In girls, the virus can enter the genitals. Herpesvirus infection on the genitals in children is much less common than in adults.

The photo under No. 7 and 8 shows, which can be localized in the form or on the inside of the cheek. It also often affects the gums (gingivostomatitis).

The photo under No. 9 shows ocular herpes (ophthalmic herpes), which affects the skin of the optic nerve. And in the photo under No. 10, the same one provoked one of the forms of herpetic lesions of the mucous membrane of the eye in the child.

Symptoms of Varicella zoster in a child

The symptoms of chickenpox are known to many. They can take on different general symptoms, the temperature may be elevated, or maybe not. The photo below shows the external manifestation of chickenpox.

It has a light or heavy form. Symptoms include chills, swollen lymph nodes, fever, general malaise, and pain along the nerve where the rash appears. Shingles (herpes zoster) is a neurological and rather painful disease. Below you can see how herpes zoster "encircles" parts of the body along the course of the nervous zone.

Symptoms of herpesvirus types 4 and 5

The Epstein-Barr virus, which is type 4 herpes, causes mononucleosis. This disease is associated with angina, but is not it. Symptoms include redness and sore throat, as with sore throat, high fever, swollen lymph nodes and internal organs, such as the liver and spleen.

Or the 5th type of herpesvirus, causes a cytomegalovirus infection. This infection is especially dangerous for a child infected with it in the womb. With intrauterine infection, the fetus begins to develop with pathologies of certain organs. When children are infected after childbirth, cytomegalovirus practically does not manifest itself in any way.

Symptoms of type 6 herpesvirus in childhood

Roseola baby, also called "sudden exanthema" or pseudorubella, can cause a baby's body temperature to rise sharply and suddenly develop a pink rash. The rashes are extensive and protrude slightly on the surface of the skin. This disease is very easy to confuse with rubella and other similar diseases, so it is worth undergoing clinical diagnosis. The photo shows roseola baby in different parts of the body.

Congenital herpes and its forms

Congenital herpes infection, more correctly called neonatal herpes, provokes one of three forms.

1. generalized form. The risk of getting this form of a herpes infection for a baby reaches 50%. The following signs are observed - general weakness of the body, high fever, symptoms of pneumonia, various pathologies with the liver and adrenal glands, frequent regurgitation, as well as signs of shortness of breath.
2. localized form. Two weeks after giving birth, you can notice a pronounced herpes rash in the baby. This form is characterized by lesions of the skin in different parts of the body, herpetic eruptions on the oral mucosa and ocular forms of herpes infection.
3. Striking form. It affects the nervous system and causes serious diseases such as encephalitis and meningoencephalitis. May be accompanied by convulsions and cytosis.

Treatment of herpes in children

Today we will look at how to treat herpes in a child caused by HSV. Since HSV causes the most frequent questions and it is always herpes simplex that is associated with a herpes infection. In addition, HSV of both the first and second types is treated with the same drugs.

In the treatment of herpes infection, attention should be paid to an integrated approach:

• the use of antiherpetic drugs;
• immunomodulatory drugs;
• medicines to relieve general symptoms.

It doesn’t matter if a herpes infection manifests itself in a child under the age of 3, 2, or a one-year-old baby, the drugs against herpes infection are the same. They didn’t come up with special remedies for the treatment of children, we are talking specifically about antiherpetic drugs. Therefore, how to treat herpes in children, the treatment regimen and dosage, the doctor should prescribe.

Let's look at the technology for treating a herpes infection, but without dosages:

1. Antivirals. To suppress herpesvirus, drugs such as Acyclovir, Zovirax and Famvir are used. They can be used in the form of ointments or tablets.
2. Immunomodulating agents. For weakened children's immunity, it is necessary to maintain the protective functions of the body. Of the drugs can be distinguished - Viferon, Cycloferon and Immunal.
3. Fighting symptoms. Symptoms often include itching and fever. In order to bring down the temperature, antipyretics are used. To relieve itching, antihistamines such as Suprastin or Tavegil are used.

If the child's eyes were affected by herpes, then a local treatment with 3% Vidarabine or 2% Trifluridine is prescribed.

Possible complications of herpes in children

Herpesvirus infection in children can lead to serious complications. Now we are not talking about the consequences of HSV, which provoke diseases such as:

• herpetic stomatitis;
• herpetic keratitis, conjunctivitis;
• or other ophthalmic problems.

And this means serious consequences that affect the incorrect formation of the organs of the fetus or are caused, albeit by rare, but more aggressive types of herpesvirus. Of these complications, meningoencephalitis and encephalitis can be distinguished, leading to death in half of the cases, even with timely and proper treatment. And also it is worth paying attention to such complications as cerebral palsy, hepatitis and DIC.

Prevention of herpes in a child

Preventive measures depend on the type of herpes virus. For chickenpox, there is a vaccination that is given to almost all children. If we talk about prevention aimed at combating the recurrence of a herpes infection, then, as Dr. Komarovsky advises, special attention should be paid to maintaining the baby's immune system.

In order not to infect the child, it is necessary to engage in the prevention of the pregnant woman and do everything so as not to provoke a relapse of the disease. To do this, you also need to maintain immunity at a high level. It is much more dangerous for a pregnant woman to become infected for the first time, as this will bring more problems to the baby.

Summing up, it is worth remembering that the symptoms and treatment of a herpes infection in childhood depend on the type of herpes virus. It must be understood that a herpes infection cannot be cured, so if you are wondering how to cure it forever, know that you can only constantly suppress the virus throughout your life.

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

Virus types

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

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 subspecies of viruses that cause various damage to the baby:

• Type 1. More often contribute to the development in the child of various rashes on the mucous membranes of the lips.
• Type 2. Causes a rash on the mucous membranes of the genital organs.
• Type 3. Refers 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 the culprit in 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 a sudden exanthema.
• Type 7. Not described in detail. Currently, researchers are studying the properties of this microorganism. There is scientific evidence that this particular subspecies 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 subspecies of the virus. May contribute to the development of malignant neoplasms on the skin. There are scientific studies that indicate that this particular virus contributes to the development of Kaposi's sarcoma.

Incubation period

Most viral diseases are highly contagious (contagious). Herpes is no exception. A sick person who has a high concentration of viruses in the blood is contagious. Focusing on statistics, it can be noted that the largest number of cases of the disease is 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, the child may not suspect that he is already infected with herpes. In this case, the infection proceeds in a latent form. With this variant of the disease, there are no symptoms. The latent form occurs in about 5% of babies.

Usually, infection with the herpes virus occurs through primary contact with an infected person. The incubation period for different subtypes of the virus may be different. The first symptoms of the disease can appear both a couple of days after the pathogen enters the child's body, and after a few months.

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 can be expressed slightly (or absent altogether) - for a long period of time. Usually they appear only when the immune system is not working properly.

The incubation period for type 1 herpes 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, causes uncomfortable symptoms, usually after 6-7 days. Shingles 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 leads to a wide variety of localizations. Each type of herpes has its own clinical features. This is due to the properties of the viral particles themselves. Infection manifests itself in children in different ways.

Herpes can cause the following clinical manifestations in a child:

• Increase in body temperature. Usually it increases to febrile values. The peak of fever falls on the first 3-4 days from the onset of the acute period of the disease. The temperature usually drops quickly. Normalization requires the appointment of anti-inflammatory and antipyretic drugs.
• The appearance of a rash. It is represented by a set of numerous formations, inside of which there is a liquid. These rashes look like bubbles filled with contents. The localization 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 rashes 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, become tightly soldered to the skin. When they are felt, the child may experience soreness.

• Severe symptoms of intoxication. The abundance of viral toxins has a toxic effect on the entire body. The child feels “broken”, becomes very lethargic. In babies, appetite and sleep are disturbed. Babies often refuse breastfeeding.
• Behavior change. Toddlers become more capricious. Children of the first years of life do not make good contact. More severe forms of the course of the disease lead to an increase in drowsiness. Unbearable itching of skin rashes contributes to increased anxiety and nervousness in the baby.
• Soreness in places of herpetic vesicles. Herpes rash is usually very itchy. With the herpes zoster, pain spreads along the damaged nerve. After the disappearance of the rashes, the pain syndrome disappears.

In the mouth

Most often, this variant is caused by the herpes virus type 1. The child has 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 vesicles, inside of which there is a liquid.

The liquid component usually has a grayish or reddish color. Herpetic vesicles 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 be injured during meals.

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

Eruptions on the lips

Most common when infected with a simple virus. Usually, subtype 1 contributes to the development of this herpetic rash. The disease is characterized by the appearance of numerous vesicles filled from the inside with a serous-bloody fluid. These formations are easily injured. Even a minor injury can cause capillary bleeding.

The danger also lies in the fact that if 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 also notice these changes at home. When bacteria enter, the bubbles begin to suppurate.

The red border of the lips is the most favorite localization for herpes simplex viruses. The rash does not appear immediately. First, the damaged area begins to itch strongly. After a couple of hours or by the end of the first day from the moment of the onset of severe itching, bubbles are already beginning to appear. When they appear, itching increases several times.

Bubbles usually 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 a while disappears on its own. In some cases, there is a persistence of moderate itching and redness of the damaged areas of the skin.

Herpetic eruptions on the face

Such localization is not the most common. Typically, this form of herpes infection occurs in weakened and often ill babies, as well as children with various forms of immunodeficiency. With this variant of the disease, red itchy vesicles appear on the nose, chin, forehead, and eyelids. Severe forms of the disease are accompanied by the appearance of herpetic eruptions on almost the entire surface of the skin of the face.

Each subspecies of herpes has its own favorite localization and some features of the development of adverse symptoms. So, with the herpes virus type 1, the vesicles appear mainly in the zone of the nasolabial triangle. With the shingles variant, rashes cover not only the face, they occur throughout the body. Chickenpox is characterized by a stepped rash. In some cases, it also appears on the head, in the hair area.

After the disappearance of the bubbles, 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 again becomes pale pink and clean. 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 herpes virus type 3 leads to the development of this disease. This viral subtype is quite virulent. The risk of infection is quite high. Usually, babies attending kindergarten and preschool institutions are more likely to become infected with the herpes zoster. The herpes virus can stay in the environment for a long time. Only prolonged exposure to high temperatures and ultraviolet radiation leads to its destruction.

Most often, doctors note the disease with a shingles form of infection in babies who have recently had chickenpox. This is largely due to the peculiarities of the immune system. Weakened immunity cannot cope with the attack of pathogenic viruses. Often ill children and toddlers with immunodeficiencies are also at increased risk.

Once in the child's body, viruses can be in a "sleepy" state for quite a long time. Usually, with the blood flow, they enter the nerve ganglia, where they can maintain their viability for a long time without losing their virulent properties. Under adverse conditions, they begin to actively multiply and cause the baby to experience the classic symptoms of a herpes infection.

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

The development of rashes goes through several successive stages. The first to appear is intense redness. After a couple of hours, a moderate itching appears, which becomes unbearable over time. The next stage is the appearance of bubbles. Inside them is a serous fluid. Herpetic vesicles 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 enter the damaged areas, they heal and crusts form. Crusts may persist for up to a week. Itching at this time is noticeably reduced. A week later, the crusts begin to fall off on their own.

After an illness, only areas of depigmented skin may remain on the skin. This is a temporary phenomenon. Usually, over time, this symptom disappears completely. In the future, the skin of the child becomes clean, without traces of a herpes infection.

Skin rashes also accompany other symptoms. These include an increase in temperature to febrile values, soreness and enlargement of the cervical and axillary lymph nodes, increasing headache and severe weakness. Usually they persist during the entire acute period of the disease. To eliminate them, the appointment of anti-inflammatory drugs and plentiful warm drinking is required.

Usually, doctors note that the severity of the disease depends on the age of the patient. The younger the child, the easier it is to tolerate this form of herpes infection. At an older age, the disease is tolerated quite hard. Some patients with severe herpes zoster are even admitted to the hospital. They are shown intensive treatment.

In the intimate area

The defeat of the genital organs with 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 to affect 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, in children there are some features of the transmission of the disease. They can also become infected during fetal development - transcervically. In this case, the viruses enter the blood along with the amniotic fluid. The transplacental method promotes the transfer of microorganisms through the blood vessels of the placenta.

Scientists also note the option of infection through the fallopian tubes - transovarially. A fairly common way of infection is during childbirth. Even small injuries contribute to the easy entry of viruses into the child's body. This option is also called contact. Doctors note that children are usually very easily infected with a herpes infection at the time of birth.

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

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

The classic symptom of "sexual" herpes are numerous vesicles. They are located on the external genitalia. These skin elements are quite itchy. In some cases, itching can be unbearable. The time of day doesn't matter. Itching can disturb the child both during the day and at night.

After the disappearance of the bubbles, erosion and wounds remain on the skin. It will take some time for epithelialization. It usually takes 5-6 days. Then the mucosa is completely restored and heals. There are no traces of the disease.

The child's general well-being is quite disturbed. The kid feels bad, his nervousness grows. Small children are more often naughty, babies can often ask for pens. Body temperature usually rises to 38-39 degrees. Against the background of febrile condition, the child may develop chills, as well as fever.

Symptoms of intoxication are also significantly pronounced. With these forms of the disease, headache, sleep and appetite disturbances, as well as rapid fatigue quite 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 proceeds with a severe course. This condition requires emergency hospitalization of the child in a hospital. There, for the baby, they will carry out the entire necessary complex of antiviral and anti-inflammatory treatment.

Genital disease in a newborn and a 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 predominantly 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 to the baby.

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

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

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

Treatment

To date, the treatment of herpes infections is diverse. It includes a large number of different drugs and medicines. 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 chickenpox, the baby develops a 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. In mild forms of the disease, topical preparations are predominantly used. To eliminate severe symptoms, the appointment of tablets is already required. Among the most commonly used drugs are Acyclovir, Zovirax, Valtrex, Vectavir, Famvir and others.
• Restoration of the immune system. Immunotherapy is carried out mainly during remission. The use of interferon preparations and immunoglobulins helps to strengthen the immune system. Medications are prescribed for a course appointment. The scheme is selected by a pediatrician or an immunologist - taking into account the age of the child and the characteristics of his anamnesis, as well as the presence of concomitant chronic diseases.
• Bed rest during the acute period. The time when the baby has a high temperature is best spent in bed. This will contribute to a faster recovery and the prevention of dangerous complications. Usually bed rest is prescribed for 3-5 days. In severe cases, it can be extended for a week or more.

• A complete meal 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 the child has herpetic rashes in the mouth, then dishes of a more liquid and soft consistency should be chosen. After the inflammatory process subsides in the oral cavity, the baby's menu can be expanded.
• Reception of multivitamin complexes. To cope with the consequences of viral intoxication, additional enrichment of the diet with vitamins and useful microelements is required. The good functioning of the immune system is helped by multivitamin complexes enriched with antioxidants. Selenium, vitamin C and retinol will be great helpers in the fight against a dangerous viral infection.
• Warm plentiful drink. Helps eliminate all toxic products from the body. As drinks, various fruit drinks and compotes made from berries and fruits are perfect. Too sweet drinks should not be given to the baby. It is better to pre-dilute them with boiled water. During the day, a sick baby should drink 1.5 liters of fluid.
• If a child develops chickenpox, it is very important to observe quarantine. The entire acute period of the disease, the baby should be at home. 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 the treatment of herpes infection. Regular hardening, proper nutrition, optimal physical activity, as well as good 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 in him.

At home

For many centuries, people have been treating herpes on their own, without resorting to drugs. Doctors recommend such treatment only for mild forms of the disease. It is quite dangerous for newborns and infants to use home therapy with folk remedies. Before using any medicinal plants, be sure to consult your doctor.

To eliminate the adverse symptoms of herpes 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 raw materials and pour a glass of boiling water over it, leave for about an hour. After that, 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 completely disappears.
• Propolis. This bee product has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect and helps to eliminate itching, as well as any redness. You can use propolis to treat herpetic vesicles several times a day. This remedy is prohibited for use for babies who are allergic to honey.
• Eucalyptus oil. It helps to eliminate redness and itching in the affected area. Eucalyptus oil has excellent antiseptic properties. Applying this remedy to herpetic eruptions will help prevent the ingress of pathogenic bacteria and the development of suppuration.
• Decoction of calendula. This tool is often used in the form of lotions. For cooking, it is enough to 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. 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 next video.

The latent herpes virus of one type or another is present in the body of every person, as a rule, since childhood. The frequency of manifestation of the virus depends on many factors, but above all - on the state of the human immune system. Herpes can become active several times a year in some people and not manifest itself in any way during life - in others. This virus is considered safe for a healthy body of preschool children and adolescents, but can cause severe complications in infants or unborn babies with intrauterine infection.

What is herpes in children

Herpetic infection in children, as well as in adults, is a viral disease that affects the skin and mucous membranes, including the mouth, lips and face, and genitals. It presents with symptoms that usually include sores that develop into characteristic itchy and painful clusters of vesicles. The virus spreads from person to person through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes, as well as through household items. The disease can be passed from mother to child during childbirth. Airborne infection is not ruled out.

In children, the infection usually invades through the mucous membrane of the oral cavity, organs of the upper respiratory system, less often through the genitals. Having penetrated through tissue barriers, the virus is in the blood and lymph. Subsequently circulating through the body, it enters various organs.

The herpes virus in children often manifests itself on the lips and around them, on the side surfaces of the nose, in the oral cavity; less often - on the trunk and limbs, extremely rarely - on the genitals.

A viral infection is embedded in the DNA of nerve cells, from where it is no longer possible to expel it. Herpes remains in the human body until the end of life, but remains there in an inactive form. A healthy immune system counteracts the development of the disease by producing specific antibodies that neutralize the virus particles circulating in the bloodstream. However, under the influence of negative factors, such as colds, freezing or lack of vitamins, immunity can fail, allowing the virus to become more active. The pathogen begins to multiply in the epithelial cells of the skin and mucous membranes, which leads to disruption of their nutrition and death.

Types and symptoms of a viral infection

The herpesvirus family is divided into 3 subfamilies (alphaherpesviruses, betaherpesviruses, gammaherpesviruses), which include more than 100 types of viruses, but only 8 of them are dangerous to humans, including children:

Virus diagnosis

If a child is suspected of being infected with a virus, first of all, you need to contact a pediatrician, who, if necessary and depending on the location of the rash and other symptoms, will refer the patient to a narrower specialist: a dermatologist, urologist, immunologist.

Diagnosis of the virus consists of two stages:

• medical examination in order to detect external signs of the disease;
• laboratory tests that detect the presence of the virus in blood and other body fluids.

The doctor can easily identify herpes simplex visually, but other types of the virus may not manifest themselves outwardly or disguise themselves as diseases with similar symptoms. In these cases, confirmation of the diagnosis using laboratory methods is required. They make it possible to identify even inactive forms of the virus, to determine its type and concentration.

The main types of analyzes that include laboratory diagnostics:

1. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A new high-tech method for examining blood (or any other biological fluids), which reveals even the smallest concentrations of the virus. Based on repeated copying of DNA and RNA fragments of the pathogen and subsequent comparison with the existing database to accurately determine the type of pathogen.
2. Enzyme immunoassay (ELISA). A blood test method based on the antigen-antibody reaction. An antigen is a foreign molecule of protein origin, and an antibody is an immunoglobulin that is produced to bind antigens and then destroy them by immune cells. Identification of the relevant compounds in the blood serum allows you to establish the presence of the virus and its concentration in the blood.
3. Immunofluorescent analysis (Koons method). The express diagnostic method is based on the processing of biological material with a special substance (fluorochrome), which illuminates antigens in the UV rays of a fluorescent microscope, making it easy to detect them, though only at a significant concentration.

Most often, the PCR method is used for diagnosis, and this is quite enough. The expediency of prescribing one of the other two research methods is determined by the attending physician. At the discretion of the doctor, additional diagnostic methods may be prescribed, for example, an immunogram that demonstrates the general state of the immune system (the number of certain immunoglobulins). This analysis is necessary for the correct selection of therapy to stimulate the body's defenses.

Treatment tactics

It makes sense to treat a herpes infection in children in the first 3 days from the onset of the rash. Late initiation of therapy will not be effective and will not significantly affect recovery. Usually the symptoms go away on their own and regardless of therapeutic measures. Antiviral therapy is prescribed without fail for frequent relapses, prolonged or extensive rashes. Treatment is aimed at relieving the child of the symptoms of the disease in the form of sores and vesicles, as well as limiting the further spread of the virus and the progression of a localized form to a generalized one. Antiviral therapy includes the following groups of drugs:

A sick child must be isolated from the team in order to avoid infection of other children. While the virus is active, the child should be allocated their own dishes and other personal items for use, since herpes is transmitted in everyday life.

Mode and diet

Bed rest is indicated in cases where the child has a high temperature (with chickenpox, infectious mononucleosis, roseola). It is important to provide the patient with a plentiful warm drink (water, tea, compote) and often ventilate the room, maintaining a comfortable temperature and humidity in it.

When the herpes virus is activated in the body, it is recommended to refrain from foods high in arginine and low in lysine, two of the eight natural amino acids. The virus needs arginine for its growth. Foods rich in arginine can make cold sores worse. These include:

• peanut;
• chocolate;
• carob;
• wheat;
• oats;
• soy products;
• some types of nuts;
• sesame seeds.

It is better to temporarily refuse the listed products when the virus is active, and not to abuse them after recovery.

Excess consumption of refined carbohydrates (baked goods, pasta, carbonated drinks) suppresses the immune system. Sugar does not allow the body's cells to absorb vitamin C in the required amount, which reduces the ability to resist infection.

The basis of the diet of a sick child should be products such as:

• bird;
• fish;
• beef;
• eggs;
• beans;
• colorful fruits and vegetables.

These products have a high lysine/arginine ratio. In addition, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli (cruciferous vegetables) have been shown to be helpful in fighting the herpes virus. They reduce the intensity of pain and discomfort that accompanies an infection.

Folk recipes

For a speedy recovery from the herpes virus, it is useful to take fish oil in the dosage prescribed by the doctor. For the treatment of bubble formations, you can use:

1. Apple vinegar. It is famous for its disinfectant, anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. It is enough to dip a cotton pad into a small container with natural vinegar and apply it on the affected area for 10-15 minutes. The acetic acid may cause a slight tingling sensation, which should not be a cause for concern.
2. Hydrogen peroxide is a disinfectant and one of the most effective home remedies for herpes. It can be applied to a cotton pad and placed on the affected area, or mixed with water and used as a mouthwash for oral ulcers. For children aged 3 to 10 years, rinsing is prepared as follows: 1 teaspoon of peroxide (3%) per 120 ml of water. For children aged 10 to 16: 1 dessert spoon with the same amount of water. It is recommended to rinse several times a day until cured. The procedure should not be used in children under 3 years of age.
3. Garlic. Contains allicin, which exhibits antiviral activity. In addition, garlic has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that are quite helpful in reducing the inflammation caused by cold sores. Grind a clove of garlic and cover the rash with the resulting slurry for 10-15 minutes. It is recommended to carry out the procedure for 3-5 days.
4. Peppermint. Peppermint tea soothes inflammation and relieves pain caused by cold sores. Peppermint oil also contains a specific compound that helps fight the herpes virus. It is beneficial to drink tea from the plant twice or thrice a day, while applying peppermint oil to the affected areas. So you can provide the patient with double protection: from the inside and outside.
5. Tea tree oil. Due to its pain-relieving, antibacterial, and anti-herpetic properties, tea tree oil can be a highly effective remedy for inflammation caused by herpes. The terpenes and phenylpropanoids contained in it act as a natural antiviral agent. It is recommended to mix equal amounts of tea tree, peppermint, geranium and myrrh essential oils and apply the mixture with a cotton pad to the areas affected by herpes.

If after using the described home remedies, the intensity of symptoms and the size of the ulcers do not decrease, an urgent visit to the doctor should be planned. Usually, a weakened immune system or any other associated complication makes the healing process difficult, so consulting a doctor in such cases becomes extremely important.

Folk remedies for herpes - gallery

Apple cider vinegar has disinfectant and anti-inflammatory properties
Garlic contains allicin, an organic compound with an antiviral effect. Peppermint is used for herpes in the form of tea (inside) and in the form of oil (outwardly) Tea tree oil contains terpenes and phenylpropanoids, which act as a natural antiviral agent.

Possible complications of the herpes virus

Some children may systematically experience reactivation of a latent virus, others experience symptoms only once after infection, then the herpes enters an inactive phase. Re-activate the virus can be such provoking factors as:

• stress;
• menstruation (in girls);
• weakened immunity due to another disease;
• sunburn.

Over time, the immune system begins to produce antibodies and the reactivation of the virus occurs less and less over the years. In a healthy child, herpes, as a rule, does not cause complications.

The virus can become dangerous for infants, although it is rare in babies under one year old, since they are protected by the mother's antibodies present in breast milk. Under the influence of the virus in young children, lesions of the visual or auditory apparatus, nervous and genitourinary systems may develop. Herpetic infection is a favorable background for frequent stomatitis - lesions of the oral mucosa. In severe cases of generalized infection, some types of herpes can lead to the development of eczema, hepatitis, herpetic encephalitis, as well.

Prevention of infection with herpes

If there is a child and adults in the house with an active form of herpes infection, the following preventive recommendations must be strictly observed:

• use a medical gauze bandage;
• temporarily refrain from close contact with the child (kissing);
• do not touch the rash, wash your hands with soap more often;
• use individual household items and personal hygiene products.

Treatment of herpes infection in children - video

The herpes virus cannot be cured in the classical sense. Once in the body of a child, it remains there forever. But it is possible and necessary to influence the frequency of its activation, strengthening the immunity of a baby or teenager with the help of suitable nutrition and a properly organized daily routine.

Content

The disease is 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 even 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 tissues of the body, internal organs. According to statistics, 80% of the world's population has HSV.

What is a herpes infection

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

Pathogen

Herpes infection in children develops when pathological microorganisms enter the human blood. In the cells infected with the pathogen, intranuclear inclusions are formed, which trigger the 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. Harmful effects are organic solvents, ether, ethyl alcohol, herpes is not susceptible to low temperatures and drying.

There are two serotypes of the pathogen according to the nucleic and antigenic composition:

1. The 1st is provoked by the development of lesions of the mucous membranes of the mouth, facial skin, central nervous system, eyes.
2. 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 pathology, symptoms and prognosis. There are the following types of pathology:

1. Virus of the first type. This is the most common type of pathogen that provokes the appearance of symptoms on the lips, the development of herpetic stomatitis, panaritium (on the fingers), viral encephalitis, sycosis, herpetic eczema, esophagitis, keratoconjunctivitis, herpetic sore throat.
2. Virus of the second type. More often it becomes the cause of the genital type of the disease. In children, it is diagnosed, as a rule, in the form of 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. With a relapse, it can provoke shingles. It is more commonly diagnosed in adults, but it can also occur in children.
4. The fourth type of infection is called the Epstein-Barr virus. It becomes the cause of a little-known pathology - infectious mononucleosis. Often mistaken for a cold and not correctly diagnosed, this type of pathogen sometimes causes some cancers.
5. Cytomegalovirus go 5th type of 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 a sudden exanthema, it is also a children's roseola.
7. The 7th type is identical to the previous version, in adults it causes chronic fatigue.
8. The latter type is poorly understood, 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 the blood of a child can be detected when infected by airborne 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 the child, as a rule, when the baby communicates with the carrier or through household items. The disease does not appear immediately and is asymptomatic in the body for a long time, generalization occurs when the immune system is weakened.

Symptoms of herpes in children

Pathology has an incubation period - a 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, babies have obvious symptoms of intoxication, even with 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, it is transmitted by airborne droplets and contact with a carrier. The herpes virus in children is manifested by 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 easier than adults. May recur in older age in the form of shingles. The pathology has the following features:

• intoxication of the body;
• vesicles (vesicles) all over the body;
• temperature rise.

Genital herpes

In most cases, it is transmitted during childbirth to the child from the mother. 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 lesions of the lips, skin of the mouth, eyes and mucous membranes.
2. Generalized infection has a full range of signs: cyanosis, lethargy, apnea, shortness of breath, regurgitation, fever.
3. The striking form affects the nervous system, can provoke meningoencephalitis, hydrocephalus, microcephaly. Characteristic features: convulsions, trembling, cytosis, loss of appetite.

Epstein-Barr virus

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

• sore throat;
• enlarged lymph nodes, adenoids;
• temperature rise;
• enlargement of the spleen, liver.

Cytomegalovirus infection

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

• headaches, muscle pain;
• chills;
• signs of intoxication;
• lesions of 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 rise;
• symptoms similar to allergies, acute respiratory infections.

Diagnosis of a herpetic infection

An experienced doctor will determine the presence of herpes by visual signs, but a laboratory test may be required to make a diagnosis. The diagnosis of this pathology is based on clinical signs. The doctor differentiates characteristic vesicular rash against the background of intoxication of the body, an increase in regional lymph nodes. You can determine the exact type of herpes with a blood test.

Herpetic eruptions

This is a typical and obvious sign of herpes in the blood of a baby. Herpetic rash in children appears on the mucous cavities, the skin in the form of vesicles with a clear liquid inside. This characteristic symptom develops gradually, after 3 days the contents of the vesicles become cloudy, the papules burst, an ulcer or an open wound forms. After a while, they dry out, become covered with a crust, which disappears after a few days and the rash disappears without a trace. The affected areas are usually sore, itchy and there is a burning sensation.

Temperature with herpes in children

This symptom is not specific for herpesvirus pathology, which can complicate the process of diagnosis. An increase in temperature, intoxication often precedes rashes, especially often 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 noted with the defeat of the mucous membranes of the child. First, chills, overexcitation, tearfulness precede the rise in temperature. Then begins a sharp jump to 39-40 degrees. Only after this does a characteristic small rash and itching appear on the body. There may be slight fluctuations in temperature throughout the day.

For the final diagnosis and clarification of the type of herpes infection, laboratory tests are used. The attending physician prescribes tests according to the following methods:

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

The presence of a herpes infection will confirm an increase in IgM titer by more than 4 times. A recurrent type of pathology will confirm a fourfold increase in IgG titer. Detection, identification of an infectious agent can be carried out using a virological examination of fluid from vesicles, scrapings of erosions, nasopharyngeal lavage, cerebrospinal fluid, urine, blood, ejaculate, or brain biopsy specimens (in case of death).

Treatment of herpes in children

Pathology therapy should be prescribed by the attending physician on the basis of the examination and tests. The prognosis of treatment depends on the form of the disease, the following options are distinguished:

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

Any suspicion of the development of herpetic pathology in a child should be the reason for going 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 start to finish. There are no alternatives to antiviral drugs, so they must be taken.

How to treat herpes in children

Therapy is carried out by a complex method, antiviral drugs, immunomodulatory drugs and restorative procedures are used. With severe discomfort due to a rash, babies are given Paracetamol. Medications help speed up the healing process of ulcers, the development of relapses and complications of the infection. Antiviral therapy is urgently needed in the generalized course of the disease, weakened immunity, in the case of genital herpes, severe brain damage.

The selection of the dosage of a particular drug occurs in accordance with the body weight, age of the child and his condition. For treatment, the following directions are used:

• lotions with proteolytic enzymes to remove dead tissue;
• treatment of lesions with antiseptic, painkillers;
• means for strengthening immunity based on interferon;
• therapy with acyclovir;
• desensitizing therapy;
• anti-herpetic vaccine for the production of antibodies to avoid reactivation of the infection and the transition to chronic herpes 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 up to 1 year old, in order 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 to parents - Union of Pediatricians of Russia.

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

Herpetic infections that affect children are quite diverse and are far from being limited to the so-called colds on the lips. Moreover, it is in childhood that herpetic diseases most often occur, which the vast majority of adults do not even know about.

For example, the photo below shows the external manifestations of a sudden exanthema (aka roseola or pseudorubella) - a fairly common herpes infection often found in children:

And here - herpetic panaritium, found in babies more often than in adults:

In general, almost every child in the first few years of his life usually faces several infections caused by herpes viruses at once (many of which, fortunately, often do not make themselves felt at all in adulthood).

It is useful to keep in mind that the concepts of "herpes" and "herpetic infection" differ in their meaning. The word "herpes" usually refers to diseases caused by herpes simplex viruses of the first and second types. In most cases, these are colds on the lips and genital herpes, less often - herpetic panaritium, ophthalmic herpes and some other diseases.

The concept of a herpes infection implies infection of the body with a herpes virus of any type, and in terms of the number of manifestations, such diseases are much more numerous than even the “many-sided” herpes. Accordingly, the treatment of a herpes infection in each case may require completely different approaches, drugs and sanitary regimens.

But first things first…

Herpes infections and related diseases

The whole variety of herpes infections is associated with 8 different herpes viruses:

1. Herpes simplex virus type 1 is the most common. In children, this virus can cause colds on the lips, herpetic stomatitis, herpetic felon (sores on the fingers), "wrestler's herpes", herpetic keratoconjunctivitis, viral encephalitis and meningitis, herpetic esophagitis, eczema and sycosis;
2. Herpes simplex virus type 2, the most common cause of genital herpes. In children, it often manifests itself in the form of neonatal herpes, or in the form of a disseminated infection. Herpes viruses types 1 and 2 are often also called herpes simplex viruses (herpes simplex);
3. The herpes virus type 3 causes the famous chickenpox in children. And with a relapse, it causes the so-called shingles - more often in adults, but sometimes in children too;
4. Herpes virus type 4, also called Epstein-Barr virus. It is associated with a rather little-known disease - infectious mononucleosis. It is little known, by the way, not because of the small number of cases of infection, but because in most cases it is mistaken for a cold and the correct diagnosis is not made. In addition, some cancers are associated with this virus;
5. Herpes virus type 5, or cytomegalovirus. The infection associated with it is called cytomegalovirus. According to individual experts, every person in the world is infected with this infection, but few people know about it due to the fact that in the vast majority of cases it does not manifest itself in a persistent form;
6. Herpes virus type 6, aka roseolovirus. Causes the so-called "sixth disease", better known as baby roseola or sudden exanthema;
7. Herpes virus type 7, almost identical to the previous one. It also sometimes causes exanthema, but in adults it is often associated with chronic fatigue syndrome;
8. And finally, the herpes virus type 8, which is rather poorly understood. It is believed to cause Kaposi's sarcoma.

Herpes simplex on a child's hand:

Relapses of some of the diseases caused by herpes viruses have such peculiar symptoms that sometimes patients consider them to be independent diseases. For example, shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, but only in cases where the “dormant” infection in the body gets the opportunity to reactivate when the immune system is weakened.

The photo below shows an example of shingles in a child:

This is interesting: the well-known "herpetic" throat infection in children is not actually herpetic. It is called herpangina, but is not associated with either angina or herpes. This disease is caused by intestinal Coxsackie viruses, and it looks like a sore throat only with sore throats, and with herpes - with characteristic rashes. The photo below shows such a pseudoherpetic infection in a child in the throat. However, the herpes simplex type 1 virus sometimes causes herpetic stomatitis, which is able to capture, including the tonsils, which leads to sore throat.

Herpangina:

Any of the above infections can occur in a child of almost any age: from the neonatal period to adolescence. However, as a rule, quite certain herpetic infections are characteristic of different ages:

• The neonatal period and infancy - herpes of newborns when infected from the mother during childbirth, as well as sudden exanthema;
• Preschool children - chickenpox and infectious mononucleosis;
• Children 8-12 years old - infectious mononucleosis, chicken pox, cytomegalovirus, labial herpes and herpetic stomatitis;
• Adolescents - labial herpes, herpetic felon.

Diseases such as, for example, herpes zoster or genital herpes in children for various reasons occur relatively rarely (the latter, due to the specifics of the spread, can occur in adolescents who begin sexual activity early).

It is useful to know the main symptoms that herpetic infections manifest themselves in order to recognize the disease in time and not to stuff the child with medicines for diseases with which such infections are often confused. We will talk about these symptoms in more detail a little lower, but for now let's see how exactly the infection of the body with herpes viruses occurs ...

How does a virus infect the body?

Herpes viruses differ significantly in contagiousness and the main routes of transmission. For example, herpes simplex viruses are transmitted by direct contact with fluid from papules (vesicles), while chickenpox and Epstein-Barr virus can be easily transmitted by airborne droplets.

After entering the body of the patient, the viral particles, under favorable conditions, penetrate into the cells of the tissues of the host organism. Here the protein shell of the virion opens, and nucleic acids with the genetic information of the virus rush to the replication apparatus of the cell.

If the virus genome successfully integrates into the genetic material of a human cell, then the latter, together with the proteins it needs, begins to produce components of viral particles. Of these, new virions are assembled right inside the cells, which, when accumulated in large quantities, lead to the death and destruction of the cell. At the same time, the particles themselves are released, enter the blood, lymph, or simply the intercellular space, infect neighboring cells and spread further.

Depending on the type of herpesvirus, its further existence in the body varies:

• When infected with herpes simplex viruses, some of the new virions cause skin damage (most often on the lips), and some penetrate into the nerve cells of the spinal cord, in which the DNA of the virus will be in the future for the rest of a person's life;
• When infected with varicella-zoster viruses and herpesvirus type 6, the virions spread rapidly throughout the body and a rash appears on all parts of the body. In this case, again, the nervous tissue is affected, in which the virus can persist until the death of the host organism;
• The Epstein-Barr virus is tropic to lymphocytes of the host's immune system, and it does not destroy them, but stimulates further proliferation;
• Cytomegalovirus in the host organism most affects the salivary glands.

The photo shows chickenpox - one of the most common herpes infections in children:

In most cases, primary herpes infection is acute and without consequences. This is especially true for sudden exanthema, cytomegalovirus infection and infectious mononucleosis caused by the Epstein-Barr virus.

However, exposure to herpes simplex viruses in newborns can cause severe conditions, and if left untreated, such infections can lead to serious complications and even death.

It is important to understand that herpes infections are among the most common in the human population in general. With a high probability, every one-year-old child has already been ill with one of them and will be ill with several of them before he comes of age. Therefore, such an infection should be treated as the norm.

This is interesting: about 90% of the world's population is infected with herpes simplex viruses. 52% of children under the age of 5 and 95% of adults in the United States are carriers of the Epstein-Barr virus. Almost 100% of the world's population is infected with cytomegalovirus, with more than half of people infected in childhood. Almost 100% of children in the countries of the former USSR get chickenpox, despite the fact that today a vaccine has been developed and is available for use.

Those herpesvirus particles that have penetrated nerve cells or lymphocytes remain in the body forever. The virions produced by these cells are constantly released into the blood or into the intercellular space, where they are immediately destroyed by the cells of the immune system. And only in the case of a strong weakening of the immune system, they can sometimes get to the corresponding tissues (for example, peripheral ones - say, to the skin on the lips) and lead to their re-infection with the development of a relapse of the disease.

This is interesting: in many children, relapses of herpetic diseases are mild and asymptomatic, which is why no one even suspects that these children are carriers of the virus and can be sources of infection at certain periods of time.

Herpes viruses have low interferonogenic activity, due to which, even when the infection is reactivated, the protective mechanisms in the child's body are triggered with a delay, as a result of which the virus has the opportunity to manifest itself, so to speak, in full.

Why are these infections essentially incurable?

A herpetic infection that once struck the human body remains in it forever. This is due to the localization of the DNA of viruses in tissues that are extremely difficult or not amenable to therapy at all.

A good example is the herpes simplex virus, as well as the varicella-zoster virus. After infection, the initial manifestation of symptoms and the suppression of infection by the body's defenses, the genetic material of the virus is stored in the nuclei of the nerve cells of the human body in the spinal cord.

Today, medicine does not have the means and methods that would allow selective removal of foreign genetic material from the chromosomes of human nerve cells, or replace the spinal cord nerve cells themselves with uninfected ones. And this means that while such cells are stored in the body, the virus is stored with them.

And, for example, the Epstein-Barr virus multiplies in lymphocytes - the cells of the immune system itself, which, in principle, should have fought virions. As in the previous case, it is extremely difficult to destroy all lymphocytes in the human body. Yes, and doing this just to get rid of the virus, which in the vast majority of cases does not cause serious illness, is irrational.

In addition, it is problematic to prevent infection of those cells from which it will be impossible to remove the virus in the future. For example, nerve cells, when infected with herpes simplex viruses, are affected even before the characteristic rashes on the lips become noticeable, and the chickenpox virus is already confidently settled in the spinal ganglia, when a rash all over the body is just beginning to appear in a child. Simply put, when parents understand that the baby has a herpes disease, it is no longer possible to completely eliminate its pathogen from the body.

Luckily, most herpes infections are not so serious as to cause much concern due to their presence in the body.

Dangerous Consequences

In most cases, in healthy babies, herpetic infections occur acutely, quickly and with little or no consequences. The greatest danger is, as a rule, a herpes infection in a newborn child:

• Neonatal herpes, which is contracted to a child at birth, or immediately before birth, from a mother suffering from genital herpes. The consequences here can be the most severe - from eye damage to cerebral palsy and meningoencephalitis;
• Congenital cytomegalovirus infection, which in symptoms resembles infectious mononucleosis.

Herpes in a newborn on the face:

Oncological diseases are also dangerous, which in rare cases can be caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (Burkitt's lymphoma), cytomegalovirus and type 8 herpes virus (Kaposi's sarcoma).

All herpesvirus infections are also dangerous for children with severely weakened immunity. In them, even simple herpes can lead to lesions of internal organs and a generalized disease with a severe course. This is true, among other things, for babies undergoing therapy with artificial immunosuppression.

Note: in HIV-infected children, it is herpes infections that are one of the leading causes of death.

A healthy child, on the other hand, who has picked up an infection already in kindergarten or school, will most likely endure it quite easily, and only symptomatic treatment will be required from parents and a doctor to alleviate severe manifestations of the disease.

Dangerous "consequences" of chickenpox - shingles and often associated with it postherpetic neuralgia, which occur less frequently and mainly in adults with weakened immune systems (the word "consequences" is in quotation marks, since chickenpox itself does not cause shingles - it can develop only when the infection is reactivated in the body).

Note: if you constantly scratch the blisters with chickenpox, scars can remain in their place for life. The bubbles themselves develop on the upper layers of the epidermis and disappear without a trace after recovery.

Symptoms and differential diagnosis of infections

Each herpesvirus infection is characterized by a specific set of symptoms that allow an experienced doctor to diagnose it in a sick person. On the other hand, the clinical picture in most cases looks like that parents take some herpes diseases for colds, and do not go to doctors.

In general, the characteristic symptoms of herpes infections are as follows:

Typical external symptoms of roseola are shown in the photo below:

Some diseases can have similar symptoms (for example, mononucleosis and cytomegalovirus infection), and some of them are so reminiscent of typical respiratory diseases that they are treated like the flu or a sore throat.

In many cases, a reliable diagnosis of a specific herpes infection requires blood tests or a special examination in the clinic.

Treatment of herpetic diseases in children

Treatment of herpetic infections is carried out in situations where the disease is too severe. At the same time, for the treatment of most infections, first of all, specialized antiviral agents are used, and in addition to this therapy, symptomatic treatment agents are used.

Of the narrowly targeted drugs, it should be noted:

• When infected with herpes simplex viruses, as well as chickenpox - Acyclovir, Valaciclovir, Valtrex, Famvir and Famciclovir. Their use is not mandatory, and, if used correctly, only reduces the duration of the course of the disease;
• When infected with the Epstein-Barr virus, symptomatic treatment is carried out - there are no specialized remedies against it;
• Treatment of cytomegalovirus infection is carried out using antiviral agents - Ganciclovir, Foscarnet, Cidofovir, as well as using specific immunoglobulin preparations - Cytotect, Megalotect and others;
• Sudden exanthema in children is not treated at all, or symptomatic therapy is dispensed with.

The use of interferon inducers and other immunomodulators for the treatment of herpes infections today is not considered an effective and adequately safe method of therapy. Such funds in exceptional cases can be prescribed only by a doctor and only under his personal responsibility.

Symptomatic treatment of herpes infections involves the use of antipyretics and painkillers, sometimes local hormonal ointments to reduce itching. By the way, the use of folk “brilliant green” for both herpes and chickenpox has practically no therapeutic effect.

Important! With chickenpox, aspirin should not be used as an analgesic and antipyretic - this remedy specifically for this infection can cause severe side effects from the liver.

As a rule, all herpetic infections disappear in children with normal immunity in 1-2 weeks. If the disease is prolonged, or its symptoms are too severe, then the child should be shown to the doctor.

Is prevention possible?

To date, all clinical trials have passed and the varicella vaccine has been introduced into the vaccination calendars of the USA, Australia and Austria. According to research, it provides reliable protection against infection with the virus, provides immunity for several years (after 20 years, the first vaccinated had 100% immunity and no one contracted chickenpox) and is well tolerated, although it requires isolation of the child for several days immediately after vaccination.

In Russia, varicella vaccination is voluntary. The vaccine itself can be bought at large pharmacies, although it is quite expensive.

There are currently no reliable vaccines for other herpes infections.

Such methods of prevention as limiting the child in communication with peers and strict sanitary measures are inappropriate, since the child will be ill in any case.

The only situation in which you need to take really serious measures to protect the child from contracting a herpes virus infection is a disease in a pregnant mother. Such situations are the most dangerous, and therefore doctors use strict methods for managing pregnancy and delivering in such cases.

Interesting video: doctor explains what parents should do if a child has type 4 herpes infection

What can be dangerous herpes ...