Protect Our Children from Herpes Virus Infection

The herpes virus can affect anyone, including children and toddlers. One symptom of herpes virus attack in children is a blister wound around the lips. This herpes virus infection becomes dangerous when the virus in blisters spreads widely and infects other members of the body such as the brain and eyes. In general, the herpes virus in children or in adults is also called the herpes simplex virus. There are two types of herpes simplex virus and both can cause blisters on the face and genital area. Herpes simplex virus type 1, also called oral herpes simplex, more often causes blisters around the mouth or face. While herpes simplex type 2 or also called genital herpes simplex, often causes blisters on the genitals. In infants younger than three months, the herpes virus can spread to other parts of the body, namely the brain and eyes, causing serious health problems, such as herpes encephalitis and keratitis.

Symptoms and Transmission of Herpes Virus Infection in Children

Symptoms of the herpes simplex virus in children in the form of sores on the face could be due to transmission from other children who have been infected first. This transmission can occur if they share toys, eating utensils, or cups with other infected children. This virus can also be transmitted from the saliva of an infected adult while kissing a child. An infected person may not have visible blisters. Meanwhile, the genital herpes simplex virus can be transmitted from mother to baby when the baby is born. Symptoms of primary infection (first attack) of the herpes virus in children usually occur in children under the age of 5 years. In addition to blisters around the mouth, other symptoms that may be seen when the child is first infected with herpes simplex virus type 1 are swollen lymph nodes, inflammation of the gums, high fever, sore throat, toddlers who salivate more than usual, dehydration, nausea, and headaches. However, the symptoms that appear can be so mild that parents are not aware of it. These symptoms generally subside after 1-2 weeks. Sometimes, this virus can settle in the body without causing disease. The disease can then reappear when triggered by certain conditions, such as fever or stress.

Handling and Caring for Herpes Virus Infection in Children

Herpes virus infection has not been cured yet. When infected, the herpes virus will settle in the nerves of the body and will cause symptoms later on if the child's body condition weakens. Treatment can only be given to relieve symptoms, help children eat and drink to prevent dehydration, and reduce the risk of recurrence. The following are guidelines for treating children infected with the herpes virus:

• Immediately consult a pediatrician, especially if the child has experienced an immune system disorder before being infected. The doctor may give antiviral drugs to help the body eradicate the herpes virus in the child's body.
• If the child feels pain, give a mild pain reliever, such as paracetamol. Don't give aspirin to children under 16 years old because it can cause Reye's syndrome which can be life threatening.
• To relieve swelling and redness in the wound, you can place ice wrapped in a towel or small towel soaked in the affected area.
• Avoid giving salty and sour foods, such as tomatoes, which can cause more painful wounds.
• Eat soft and cold foods.
• Pain relief ointments can be applied by paying attention to usage guidelines, especially if the child is less than 12 months old. It's better if all drugs are prescribed by a doctor.
• Give children more fluids to prevent dehydration. As for babies, mothers can continue breastfeeding.
• Encourage your child to rinse his mouth with mouthwash if brushing your teeth feels painful due to inflammation of the gums.
• Remind children not to touch the wound.

There are various preventative steps that can be taken to ward off the herpes virus in children. In order for children to avoid the herpes virus, it is better to forbid just anyone to smell it, especially in newborns. At home and at school, avoid sharing eating and drinking utensils, such as cups and spoons, with other children, and teach children to wash their hands regularly. The most important thing, if your child is experiencing a herpes virus infection, it is recommended to let him rest at home until his condition is fully recovered. In addition to accelerating healing, also to avoid transmission to other children at school.