How dangerous is herpes in the mouth? | Herpes in the mouth

How dangerous is herpes in the mouth?

A herpes infection in the mouth area should always be taken seriously. Usually the blisters heal after a few days, but with the right therapy the healing time can be delayed and the risk of complications reduced.

Infection

Infection with the herpes virus occurs through contact with infected fluid. Especially the liquid in the vesicles which are created during the outbreak of the infection is highly contagious. For this reason, care should be taken to avoid any saliva contact with other people during an outbreak in the mouth.

Since the herpes infection in the mouth area is usually a disease of small children, some special rules apply. It is recommended to keep children away from kindergartens and daycare centers during a herpes outbreak to avoid infection of other children and adults. The parents of the affected children should also be careful with potential saliva exchange during an infection. On the other hand, parents who suffer from herpes infection in the mouth area should not put the children’s pacifier in their own mouth to avoid infection of their children. In general, after the blisters have healed completely, a herpes infection is much less likely.

What should be considered during pregnancy?

A herpes infection during pregnancy can pose a risk to the newborn baby. Especially dangerous is an infection with the so-called genital herpes, although lip herpes can also be dangerous for the child. This is especially true if it is an initial infection with the virus.

Since an outbreak in the mouth usually indicates an initial outbreak of the disease, it is important to consult a doctor if herpes is suspected as the cause of the symptoms. A herpes infection during pregnancy can and should be treated with antiviral therapy. This is also possible in the last third of the pregnancy.

Since in rare cases genital herpes can also infect the mouth area and this can have a considerable effect on the baby if the mother is infected, therapy is urgently recommended. In some cases, it may be necessary to perform a caesarean section to rule out dangerous complications for the baby. Which individual therapy is best suited to your baby is best assessed by your doctor.