The number : 90% of us have already been infected with the herpes labialis virus.
Cold sores only appear on the lips.
Faux : The virus penetrates the skin at different places: classically, it occurs on the lips, but can also bloom at the level of the nose, the cheeks, inside the mouth, and even at the level of the eyes (very dangerous location, because the virus affects the cornea). The body (fingers, trunk, etc.) is also likely to be affected. In addition, there are two forms of herpes simplex: the HSV1 virus, responsible for cold sores, and HSV2, the cause of genital herpes. However, the former is quite capable of causing genital lesions. And vice versa. Herpes being very contagious, it is necessary for example to avoid the bucco-genital caresses (fellatio and cunnilingus) when one is subject to a cold sore. Remember that the outbreak of a herpes button is often preceded by sensations of tingling, burning… Then, a bouquet of small vesicles filled with liquid occurs. These blisters rupture and form small ulcers, which heal within a few days.
Primary infection usually occurs in childhood
True : In some children, the signs will be more severe: the flare-up is greater, they may present with fever, swollen glands, a feeling of general malaise, etc. Young children have an immature immune system, which explains the severity of lesions and associated signs. In addition, there is a very early form of herpes, which appears around birth: it is neonatal herpes. In question, lesions of genital herpes in the mother, which contaminate the baby during childbirth (possibility of taking medication before to avoid blocking the push). Another possibility: the baby is infected by a person with a cold sore, who kisses him. Neonatal herpes is serious (it can go as far as meningoencephalitis). Fortunately, this pathology is very rare.
After an initial infection, the virus is dormant in the body.
True : First, the virus penetrates the epidermis and induces an inflammatory reaction. After the push, it migrates along a nerve. It rests at the level of the ganglion of this nerve. It is controlled by our antibodies. And in some contexts, it wakes up. This is particularly the case during emotional stress, a feverish state, just before menstruation… Another trigger: sun exposure (UV burns locally and lowers immunity a little) and dental abscesses as well as dental trauma.
Today there are drugs that can eradicate the virus.
Faux : Researchers are working on it, but for the time being, the only treatments available are antivirals (valaciclovir and aciclovir, on prescription), which block the reproduction of viruses in the process of multiplication, but are not active on viruses ” dormant”. Antivirals act as decoys. To develop, the virus needs adenosine triphosphate which it will find in the antiviral. But this molecule is a kind of low-quality food for the virus. She traps him and destroys him. Aciclovir is also available as a cream (over the counter in pharmacies). It is also important to disinfect the lesions, in order to avoid any possible superinfection. The local form is ideal in the event of a small outbreak (a cold sore). Ideally, the cream should be applied (5 times a day) from the first tingling, before the appearance of blisters. On the other hand, during a strong push, we can associate cream and tablets (2 tablets per day for 5 to 7 days). It is also possible to take antivirals when you have recurrent outbreaks (more than 6 outbreaks per year). Another context: preventive treatment (1 tablet per day for 5 days): for example, you go to the mountains and know that you flare up when you are exposed to the sun.
The large family of herpes viruses
In this family, we find the two herpes simplex (HSV 1 and HSV2) and the varicella-zoster virus. Also included are the EpsteinBarr virus, responsible for infectious mononucleosis or kissing disease, as well as the cytomegalovirus, which causes most often mild infections (except for immunocompromised people).
Contagion: the right gestures
You have a cold sore: adapt the right gestures so as not to contaminate others! Don’t share your toothbrushes with family members, don’t drink from the same glass as them. Also avoid kisses and fiery kisses. Know that you will be contagious until the lesions heal.
Thanks to Dr. Marc Perrussel, hospital dermatologist and vice-president of the National Syndicate of Dermatologists.
EGLANTINE GRIGIS