Persistent herpes in a child. Symptoms and treatment of herpes in children

Herpes occurs among all age groups, but children are most susceptible to viral damage. The disease is accompanied by characteristic blisters on the body and mucous membranes. Outwardly, the disease looks like bubbles on the lip or in the throat, filled with a yellowish liquid. The base of the skin under the bubbles is erythematous-edematous.

Physicians distinguish eight types of herpes. The last two groups are considered extremely rare, leading to severe forms of the disease with damage to external and internal organs.

Children are mainly susceptible to infection by the first six types:

1. The virus of the first type, or herpes simplex HSV-1, localized around the lips.
2. The second type of virus, human herpes simplex, occurs on the genitals.
3. Virus of the third type. It includes herpes zoster and chickenpox, or chickenpox.
4. Epstein-Barr virus belongs to the 4th type of human herpes.
5. Type five - Cytomegalovirus infection.
6. The sixth type includes the herpes virus that causes Roseola disease.
7. Herpes infection type 7, or β-herpesvirus, has several definitions, in particular HHV7 and HHV7.
8. Associated Kaposi's sarcoma virus belongs to the 8th type of human herpes.

Once entering the body, herpes in children remains in a latent-persistent state throughout life.

Causes

The causative agent of herpes simplex virus Herpes Simplex, has many clinical manifestations. Characteristic bubble rashes occur on the skin and mucous membranes.

1. Herpetic HSV-1 infection transmitted by household, airborne droplets or orally in the postnatal period. Transmission of the virus to the fetus during pregnancy occurs through the placenta.
2. Infection with the second type of herpes possibly from mother to child during childbirth. Children suffer the disease more severely than adults, and it is more difficult to treat a child.
3. Chicken pox, herpes type 3, in childhood is easily tolerated. Everyone knows that having had chickenpox, a person develops immunity. But secondary infection with this type of virus is possible, and it leads to the occurrence of shingles.
4. Herpes viruses 4 to 7 type provoke the occurrence of infectious mononucleosis and lymphocytosis. In the analysis of peripheral blood, an increased content of atypical mononuclear cells. The liver and spleen are enlarged. Intrauterine herpes infection can occur from any biological substrate - blood, urine, saliva.
5. Herpes type 6 in children is the most common. It manifests itself in the form of pink spots with papular rashes, and is called. The risk category includes children under 2 years of age. The characteristic symptoms of the disease include fever, lasting no more than 3-6 days and sore throat. With the normalization of temperature, papular-spotted rashes appear on the body - exanthema. The diameter of the spots does not exceed 0.03 cm. When pressed, the papules turn pale, unlike rubella. The duration of skin rashes varies from several hours to several days. Rashes are localized on the body in the region of the sacrum, neck, face and limbs.

Herpes infection in children under one year is very difficult. Treatment is complex, associated with severe forms of lesions of internal organs. There is a risk of meningitis or encephalopathy.

Symptoms

The onset of the disease is marked by itching and burning at the sites of vesicle formation. Soon the bubbles burst with the formation of ulcers and wounds covered with crusts.

The oral mucosa may also ulcerate. Herpes in the mouth of a child spreads along the inside of the cheeks, gums, tongue and throat. The gums are hyperemic and bleed. There is an increase in lymph nodes that respond to palpation with pain.

Sores of herpes in the throat are small, painful, the tonsils are covered with a gray coating. Treatment is long, lasting at least two weeks.

There are four stages of the course of the disease:

1. primary infection.
2. Latent period.
3. secondary infection.
4. Possible complications.

On the 12th day, during the primary infection, a rash forms on the body and a sore throat is felt. The skin is dry, painful, swollen. After a short period of time, the rash turns into blisters that dry out or burst.

The infectious substrate, pouring out, infects areas of the skin around. Healed blisters are not dangerous. In the affected area, the lymphoid nodes are enlarged and painful when touched. Body temperature is elevated. There are headache attacks. General condition, as in SARS with sore throat.

The course of the latent period is asymptomatic. The patient does not pose a threat to others. Herpetic infection sleeps until the onset of the third stage of the disease.

At the end of the latent period, latent reproduction of the virus occurs with the return of symptoms of the disease. The onset of secondary infection is unpredictable, but, as a rule, secondary infection appears within a year after the initial infection with the virus.

The possibility of complications depends on the type of infection affecting the body.

Treatment

In therapy against herpes infection, interferon and antiviral drugs are used. Treatment of herpes in children begins when the first signs of the disease occur. In a neglected state, the risk of the disease becoming chronic increases with frequent relapses and possible complications.

Treatment of herpes infection in childhood is aimed at suppressing the active form of the virus. Doctors prefer to treat the external manifestations of the virus on the body or lip with ointments. Tablets are used as drugs that relieve itching and pain, as well as antipyretics at high temperatures.

It is preferable to treat a child in the stage of herpes exacerbation with the antiviral drug Acyclovir, which is available in the form of tablets, ointments and injections.

The dose of the drug is calculated only by the doctor in accordance with the severity of the disease and depending on the type of virus:

• orally - up to 90 mg / kg of the child's weight, 4 times a day in equal doses;
• intravenously - from 30 to 60 mg / kg;
• external use is limited to the local location of the focus of infection with application up to 5 times a day to the affected areas.

The introduction of immunostimulating drugs into therapy contributes to the effective fight against the virus by the child's body.

Immunostimulants are introduced into the treatment:

• Immunal;
• Groprisin;
• Arpetol.

The herpes virus is perfectly destroyed by interferons, which control their spread and block the reproduction process. Drugs are available in the form of tablets and suppositories.

The child should be treated for five days, anally introducing interferon suppositories twice a day. If necessary, the course is repeated with a five-day break between cycles.

Herpes of the second type in a child

The occurrence of genital herpes in a child is not a frequent occurrence. Herpes on the genitals in adolescents may occur after the first sexual experience. At a younger age, children are infected mainly from their parents.

The herpes virus type 2 affects the genitals. In girls, manifestations of herpes can be found on the labia minora or labia majora, in boys - in the scrotum.

Symptoms of herpes in children are accompanied by high fever, fever and acute pain in the area of ​​the rash. Inguinal lymph nodes are enlarged, painful on palpation.

Herpes type 2 relapses much more often than herpes simplex. This form is dangerous during pregnancy and childbirth, since the risk of infection of the newborn is high. It is difficult to treat, especially during pregnancy. Only a doctor can prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Therapy for gardnerellosis, or viral vaginosis, consists of two stages, regardless of whether a girl or an adult woman has to be treated.

The first stage is aimed at suppressing the process of reproduction in the vagina of gardnerella - excess microbial flora. Therapy is carried out with gels and suppositories of Metronidazole, or Clintamycin, rarely - tablet preparations.

The second stage is devoted to the reproduction of the initial number of lactobacilli, whose vital functions were inhibited by gardnerella during the period of illness. At this stage, it is preferable to treat with probiotics:

• Bifiform;
• Lactobacterin;
• Linex;
• Bifidumbacterin.

It is important to remember that self-treatment of children without consulting a pediatric gynecologist can lead to sad consequences.

With frequent relapses, consultation with an immunologist is necessary. Treatment is prescribed to strengthen the child's immune system, since the herpes virus that has entered the body remains with the person forever, no matter what type he is.

Prevention

Preventive measures to prevent recurrence depend on the form of the disease. Timely detection of neonatal herpes in pregnant women makes it possible for a child to be born naturally. If an infection is detected for a period of 36 weeks, no treatment is prescribed, the only preventive measure is a caesarean section.

Answers

Epidemiology. The source of infection is a sick person or a virus carrier. Ways of transmission: contact, airborne, sexual, during childbirth.

History and distribution. Herpes was known to Herodotus. The viral etiology of the disease was proved by W. Gruter in 1912.

Causes of herpes infection in children

Herpes simplex is from the Herpes viridae family. Portal of infection: skin and mucous membranes. At the site of introduction (cells of the epidermis and mucous membranes), the virus replicates. Then, through sensitive and autonomic endings, the virus penetrates into the nerve ganglia, where it multiplies and spreads through efferent pathways to new areas of the skin and mucous membranes. With generalization of infection, damage to internal organs is possible. Of great importance for the development of the disease is the state of the resistance factors of the human body.

Examination of patients with recurrent herpetic infection does not reveal the same type of disorders of the immune response and interferon status. It is not clear whether these factors provoke active replication of the latent virus or sharply increase its continuous replication. However, in any case, the newly formed viral particles penetrate the skin and mucous membranes along the efferent nerves, reproduce there and cause local changes similar to those during the primary infection. At this time, viremia, generalization of infection and damage to internal organs are possible. The mechanism of lesions of the central nervous system is unclear, since they, as a rule, are not combined with lesions of the outer integument. In infected epithelial cells, ballooning degeneration develops, followed by necrosis, vesicle formation, and a secondary inflammatory response.

The main cause of death in newborns is necrotic changes in many organs.

Principles of classification

By localization: damage to the skin, mucous membranes, eyes, genitals, central nervous system, internal organs. By prevalence: local and widespread forms. Downstream: acute, abortive, recurrent.

Symptoms and signs of herpes infection in children

The incubation period is from 2 to 14 days. With local forms of the syndrome of general intoxication and fever, they are not noted, with common forms, high fever and a pronounced syndrome of general intoxication are observed. A herpetic rash appears on the skin of the face, nose, lips, eyelids, hands and other areas, which is preceded by sensations of burning, heat, itching. Herpetic rash is represented by vesicles with transparent contents, which gradually become cloudy. Vesicles can merge into one large element (herpetic eczema). Vesicles open, forming erosions, or dry out, forming crusts. Layering of a bacterial infection, development of regional lymphadenitis is possible. On the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, tonsils, hyperemia, edema, bubble elements with transparent and yellow contents, erosion are observed. Stomatitis is accompanied by a feverish reaction, deterioration in general well-being, regional lymphadenitis. Eye damage occurs in the form of follicular, catarrhal or vesicular-ulcerative conjunctivitis, blepharoconjunctivitis, keratoiridocyclitis.

With genital herpes, the penis, vulva, vagina, cervical canal, perineum, endometrium are affected. Vesicular and erosive-ulcerative rashes are revealed. CNS lesions occur in the form of meningitis and encephalitis. Visceral forms are most often found in the form of hepatitis, pneumonia, nephritis. In the general clinical analysis of blood: lymphocytosis, thrombocytopenia, increased ESR.

CNS lesions are more often caused by HSV-1, less often by HSV-2. Serous meningitis is possible, clinically not different from other viral meningitis, encephalitis and meningoencephalitis are more common. The disease develops rapidly. The defeat of the central nervous system is preceded by severe fever, chills, myalgia, catarrhal phenomena. Repeated generalized convulsions are often noted. A protracted relapsing course of the disease is possible.

CSF examination reveals low lymphocytic or mixed pleocytosis, often an admixture of erythrocytes, and CSF xanthochromia. The protein content is moderately increased, glucose - formal or increased.

It is also possible to develop myeloradiculopathy and paresis of the facial nerve.

Generalized forms of the disease include Kaposi's eczema herpetiformis. It is characterized by severe intoxication, profuse rashes, especially in places of previous skin lesions. Lethal outcomes are possible.

In HIV-infected people, a generalized form of the disease with frequent relapses prevails, in addition to the skin and oropharynx, the mucous membrane of the esophagus, the organ of vision, and the central nervous system suffer. Skin lesions are extensive, deep (ulcers), heal slowly with scarring.

Diagnosis of herpetic infection in children

Direct method of immunofluorescence. Determination of specific IgM, PCR.

differential diagnosis. Carried out with an infectious mollusk, chickenpox, herpes zoster, etc.

Diagnosis of typical forms of herpes with lesions of the skin and mucous membranes in most cases is not difficult. With lesions of the central nervous system, visceral and atypical forms of the disease, additional research methods are used. More often, serological tests are used (RSK, RPHA, RNIF, ELISA), which allow the detection of antibodies against HSV in the blood serum and CSF. An increase in antibody titer by at least 4 times indicates an active infection, with primary infection, antibodies of the IgM class are detected, and with relapses, IgG. It is possible to detect viral DNA by PCR, however, due to the widespread infection of people with HSV, viral DNA can be detected in patients with other diseases and healthy individuals. The presence of viral particles in the contents of the vesicles is detected by direct RIF. Isolation of virus culture from various biological substrates is commonly used for scientific purposes.

Treatment and prevention of herpes infection in children

Hospitalize patients with common forms, lesions of the central nervous system, internal organs. With localized forms, local ointments are used: acyclovir, oxolinic, bonafton, flurenal. For the prevention of bacterial complications, a 1% solution of brilliant green, a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide is used. Pain can be relieved by applications of solutions of anestezin, lidocaine. With common forms, damage to the central nervous system, internal organs, antiviral drugs are used: acyclovir, virolex, α-interferon, inducers of interferonogenesis.

The issue of hospitalization is decided according to clinical indications. As a rule, patients are treated on an outpatient basis. Treatment with acyclovir, less effective are valaciclovir (Valtreke), famciclovir (Famvir), te(Alpizarin), gossypol. Also used are interferon inducers, immunomodulators [imunofan, azoxymer bromide (polyoxidonium), etc.], ointments [acyclovir (zovirax), tetrabromotetrahydroxydiphenyl (tebrofen ointment), bromnaphthoquinolone (bonafton), florenal]. In the complex of pathogenetic therapy, NSAIDs are prescribed, with damage to the central nervous system, dehydration is performed, dexamethasone (dexazone) is used.

Forecast. Severe prognosis - with encephalitis and a generalized form of the disease.

Prevention. Prevention of recurrence of herpes infection is complex, it includes the use of acyclovir, immunomodulators, interferon inducers and vaccination using an inactivated herpes vaccine.

Anti-epidemic measures. Isolation of the patient at home for up to 10 days. Compliance with the rules of personal hygiene. Current and final disinfection. Prevention of infection in newborns.

Herpes is a viral infection, a frequent manifestation of which is a rash in the form of bubbles. The herpetic virus that has entered the body of a child cannot be cured forever.

It can only be temporarily calmed down, muffled. This virus is in an inactive state in nerve cells, under the influence of adverse factors, it is activated.

Herpes infection develops in children:

• as a result of emotional stress, stress;
• after diseases that weaken the body;
• in case of overheating or hypothermia;
• in case of deficiency in the body of vitamins.

In the presence of factors that reduce the body's defenses, the herpes virus progresses.

The weaker the immunity of the crumbs, the harder it will be for him to endure this infection.

Methods of infection with the virus

With a herpes virus infection, a high degree of contagiousness is noted. Ways of transmission: airborne, contact. The period of rash of papules (vesicles) of herpes on the skin or mucous membranes is the most contagious, since the fluid that accumulates in them contains a huge number of viral particles.

In most cases, this virus enters the child's body during communication with carriers of herpes or in everyday life (through towels, dishes, etc.).

The herpes virus may not appear immediately, but when favorable conditions appear in the form of a weakened immunity of the child.

Varieties of infection

The virus has about two hundred varieties, but herpetic infections in children are six main types with characteristic features of the clinical manifestation.

Type 1 - Herpes simplex, the most common

Manifested by rashes on mucous membranes, skin (on the nose, lips, fingers, mouth). In addition to rashes in the form of yellowish, white or transparent vesicles, the child may experience weakness, capriciousness, chills, swollen lymph nodes, and general malaise.

Type 2 - genital herpes

It is often transmitted from an infected mother to her child during childbirth. This type of herpes infection in children is called neonatal. The manifestation of symptoms, features of the disease depend on the form of infection:

• with a localized form, the mucous membranes and skin of the mouth, lips, eyes are affected;
• with a generalized form, a full range of symptoms is manifested (fever, regurgitation, shortness of breath, apnea, lethargy, cyanosis);
• with a striking form, the nervous system is affected, the development of meningoencephalitis, microcephaly, hydrocephalus is possible. Among the characteristic symptoms: trembling, convulsions, loss of appetite, cytosis.

Type 3 - chickenpox (chickenpox), Varicella Zoster virus

Signs: characteristic rashes of skin vesicles (vesicles) all over the body, intoxication of the body, fever. A variant of the defeat of this type of herpes can be herpes zoster.

Type 4 - Epstein-Barr virus

This type of virus causes infectious mononucleosis and affects the lymphoid system. It is associated with a number of cancers. Symptoms: swollen lymph nodes and adenoids, sore throat, fever, enlarged liver and spleen.

Type 4 herpes in children is dangerous asymptomatic or similar to the manifestations of a cold. A blood test helps establish the diagnosis.

Type 5 - cytomegalovirus infection

A child after infection with an infection of this type can be a virus carrier for a long time, the disease itself will temporarily not manifest itself. When immunity is weakened, the virus is activated, which is manifested by chills, headaches, muscle pain, and signs of intoxication. In some cases, there is damage to the liver, central nervous system, lungs, inflammation of the glands.

type 6 - roseolovirus

The disease is also called pseudorubella. Symptoms: fever, as well as rashes of pink small papules all over the body. The disease is often confused with rubella due to the similarity of rashes, as well as with manifestations of allergies and acute respiratory infections.

Recently discovered viruses of a new generation have become herpes types 7 and 8. They are little studied, the appearance of fatigue, depression is distinguished from the characteristic manifestations. In addition, the development of oncological diseases, namely Kaposi's sarcoma, is associated with type 8 herpes infection.

It will be difficult for parents to independently determine the presence of herpes in a baby, as well as the type of this disease. For a reliable diagnosis, it is worth contacting a specialist, undergoing an examination. Herpes is treated by a pediatrician. With frequent rashes with severe itching, bringing significant discomfort, you should consult an immunologist for advice.

The course of the disease

Symptoms of herpes of the first type in children are the same as in adults, but more pronounced. From the manifestation of the virus to its suppression, there are several stages.

• incubation period. At this stage, it is not always clear that the child has herpes. The kid becomes irritable, restless, a headache may appear, the throat becomes inflamed. The symptoms are similar to a cold. Virus-affected areas of the skin, mucous membranes begin to itch, swell.
• Initial period. In the second stage, on the lips, wings of the nose, in the mouth (on the tongue, gums, tonsils), sometimes itchy vesicles with a colorless liquid appear around the eyes. They increase, while the strength of itching increases, pain may appear.
• period of development of the disease. At this stage, the fluid accumulated in the vesicles becomes cloudy, becomes like pus. The child may complain of pain when swallowing, lymph nodes increase. Fluid with viral particles flows out of the burst bubbles.
• The period of extinction of the disease. During the next stage, ulcers appear in place of the vesicles, gradually crusting over, as in a normal wound. At this stage, the child becomes less restless, itching and pain subside. After 6-9 days, the final healing occurs, the crusts on the wounds fall off, the skin is restored.

Slow down the healing process can combing bubbles and wounds, peeling off the resulting crusts. Parents are advised to control the child's actions, not to give very hard and too hot food, which can also harm healing.

Treatment of herpes in children

The methods of treatment of herpes infection used by modern medicine do not allow to completely remove the virus from the child's body, but help to alleviate the course of all stages of the disease and speed up recovery. Treatment of herpes infection in children is to reduce the activity of the virus, suppress it, strengthen the immune system. It is desirable to start treatment at the initial stage of the disease.

At the first signs of the manifestation of this infection, it is necessary to provide the child with a balanced diet, frequent drinking. His food should not irritate the mucous membranes, so there are restrictions on hot, spicy, sour.

It is important that the baby does not touch, does not comb the bubbles, otherwise he may introduce a secondary bacterial infection, contribute to the further spread of the virus. Cauterizing wounds with alcohol will not kill herpes, but will help with disinfection of the mucous membranes.

It is important to monitor the personal hygiene of the child, change underwear and bedding more often. The air in the children's room should be cool, moist, fresh.

Antiviral agents are suitable for treatment, as well as symptomatic treatments, such as antipyretics, painkillers, topical ointments to reduce itching, etc.

Antivirals

Manufacturers offer them in the form of creams, ointments, tablets, injections. The simultaneous use of drugs inside and locally is considered effective, since in this case it is possible to achieve the required concentration of the therapeutic substance in the blood, thereby accelerating the process of suppressing the virus. With the manifestation of herpes on the oral mucosa, it is recommended to be treated with antiherpetic ointments of a lower concentration.

Immunostimulating drugs

They will help prevent damage to internal organs by the virus, improve the protective functions of the body.

vitamin therapy

To make it easier for the body to cope with the disease, treatment must be supplemented with vitamin preparations. Especially useful are vitamins C, A, E, group B.

Antipyretic

When the temperature rises above 38.5 ° C, it is necessary to give the child antipyretic drugs, carefully monitor his condition.

Antihistamines

They will help relieve the baby's condition with severe itching or in case of extensive skin lesions.

Folk remedies

Preference is given to herbal decoctions, infusions, ointments that promote the healing of sores. For the treatment of herpes in the mouth, rinsing the oral cavity with disinfectants can be used: decoctions of calendula, chamomile, sage, nettle.

Preventive measures

To date, the varicella vaccine has been tested and successfully used. Vaccination against this type of herpes infection is exclusively voluntary, and the vaccine itself is sold in large pharmacies. For other types of herpes, reliable vaccines have not yet been created.

Prevention methods such as strict sanitary conditions for the child, limiting his communication with peers will be ineffective. A much better prevention of the disease can be a proper diet filled with vitamins, frequent exposure to fresh air, a mobile, sports lifestyle, hardening.

It is also important to eliminate the factors that suppress the immune system and contribute to the activation of herpes infection, for example, physical overload, stress, and chronic diseases. A healthy lifestyle for a baby will be a reliable protection against herpes and its complications.

Serious preventive measures should be taken by pregnant women, since it is extremely important to protect the future baby from neonatal herpes. In this case, prevention should consist in the timely detection of infection in the expectant mother, careful monitoring of her general condition, the state of the birth canal.

Since the course of this disease in infants is quite difficult, if there are adults with manifestations of a herpes infection in the house, it is important to follow strict preventive measures:

• the baby should not come into contact with infected people, their things;
• if the mother of the child is infected, then when communicating with him, she must wear a gauze bandage;
• it is not advisable to kiss the child;
• wash hands thoroughly before using baby utensils, pacifiers.

Dangerous Consequences

In healthy children, in most cases, herpes occurs acutely, quickly, without consequences. For them, it is quite possible that only symptomatic treatment is required to alleviate the accompanying manifestations of the disease.

A great danger is the manifestation of infection in weakened children and in newborns, whose immunity is also imperfect. In this category of children, virus damage can cause serious conditions that require immediate treatment.

In some cases, the development of undesirable complications is inevitable, leading even to disability, death. Among the dangerous complications are stomatitis, gingivitis, keratoconjunctivitis, corneal erosion, herpetic eczema, cerebral palsy, meningoencephalitis, epilepsy, mental disorders, DIC, inflammation of internal organs.

Invisible enemies of humanity - viruses - infect 80-90% of people of all ages. Often, herpes in children occurs in the first days of life, affects various tissues and organs. The causative agent of the disease is transmitted transplacentally from an infected mother, and after birth - by contact-household and airborne droplets. It is extremely difficult to protect against infection with herpesvirus, so care must be taken to strengthen the child's immunity.

Antibodies obtained from the mother help the newborn baby resist infection, resist numerous viruses and microbes. As soon as the action of innate immunity dries up, the child is exposed to infection. Symptoms and treatment of the herpes virus in children depend on the location of the affected tissue or organ, the typology of the virus. The incubation period from the moment the infection enters the child's body to the first symptoms of the disease lasts from 2 days to two weeks.

Localization and types of herpetic lesions in children:

• keratitis, conjunctivitis and other lesions of the organ of vision;
• skin and mucous membranes of the genitals;
• mucous membrane of the nasal passages, pharynx;
• nerve nodes and neurons;
• head and body skin;
• oral cavity.

Internal organs and nerves are affected by a generalized herpetic infection.

Among the numerous representatives of the herpesvirus family, there are 6-7 types that are pathogenic for children. The causative agent of the labial form of the disease and herpetic stomatitis is HSV-I (herpes simplex virus type 1). Oral and genital herpes are more likely to cause HSV-II.

The cause of chickenpox and herpes zoster is Varicella zoster, a type III virus. Herpes on the body of a child is often called "shingles". Epstein-Barr type IV herpesvirus is the causative agent of dangerous diseases, in particular infectious mononucleosis. Cytomegalovirus type V causes infectious mononucleosis and hepatitis. Approximately half of the children by adolescence are found to have viruses of types VI and VII. These are the causative agents of sudden exanthema or "pseudo-rubella".

Children most often become infected with HSV types I and II through contact and household contact. The most common viruses of the first three types cause herpetic sore throat, stomatitis, and gingivitis in children. They also cause skin lesions, especially around the mouth and on the nose. If the baby is 2-3 years old, then the symptoms of herpes can not always be recognized in the first hours and days. The child becomes lethargic, feels unwell, he develops a headache and sore throat, fever. Often, at the initial stage, the disease is easily mistaken for SARS, a cold.

Complications are characteristic of primary infection, as well as with weakened immunity in children.

A strong immune system protects the child's body from the activation of the herpes virus in the tissues. This is the main reason for the small number of cases compared to the number of carriers of the infection. Before treating herpes in a child, it is necessary to find out how the infection occurred, against which types of virus this or that drug purchased at the pharmacy was developed .

Forms and symptoms of herpes simplex

The most common signs of localized forms of herpes infection are visible on the face of a child around the mouth, on the mucous membranes of the nose and pharynx. First, a slight swelling and redness appear on the affected area, itching, discomfort are felt. Then there are clusters of small bubbles, larger than 1 mm, with transparent, yellowish or whitish contents. Vesicles are located in groups, often merge. When the liquid in the bubbles begins to become cloudy, the walls of the bubbles open, erosion or drying crusts appear.

If left untreated, herpes infections of types I and II in children, the symptoms can persist for 2-3 weeks. The skin is usually restored without consequences, scars remain only in cases of deep damage and secondary bacterial infection. The development of a primary viral disease is almost always a high risk of its spread in the blood. Possible damage to the liver, bronchi, lungs, brain and spinal cord. It is not uncommon for children to experience recurrences of these types of herpes as they grow older.

Clinical forms of herpes infection types I and II:

1. Generalized- rashes occupy vast areas of the skin and mucous membranes, accompanied by fever.
2. Recurrent - a rash occurs on the head, genitals, legs, fingers; accompanied by pain, malaise, poor sleep and indigestion.
3. Zosteriform - rashes, as with herpes zoster, appear on the arms, thighs, buttocks, lesions of the peripheral nervous system occur.
4. Edema - damage to the red border of the lips, mucous in the nose, in the genital area.
5. Abortive - the disease stops at the initial stage.

Immunodeficiency complicates the course and therapy of herpes in children.

In severe generalized herpes simplex, the temperature rises to febrile values, intoxication occurs, and internal organs are affected. The spread of the virus is facilitated by blood transfer, scratching the itchy surface. As in the case of the localized form, itching, burning, blisters appear. In addition, the symptoms of intoxication are increasing: febrile temperature, appetite disorders, weakness, insomnia.

Herpes in newborns

The development of herpetic infection in infants is possible in the prenatal, peri- and postnatal periods. A viral infection in the first trimester of pregnancy can cause fetal death, lead to malformations after birth. If the baby is sick with herpes in the first days of life, then the generalized form develops more often, the child's condition is severe.

The presence of genital herpes in the mother of the baby increases the risk of infection of the newborn up to 60%.

Less likely to get sick in infants after contact with virus carriers (parents, nurses, children). Usually the incubation period lasts one to two weeks, after which mucus from the nose begins to stand out. Bubbles in the oral cavity, nasal passages, on the cheek, extremities occur after 24 hours or later, after 7-12 days.

Vital reflexes in newborns, such as sucking and swallowing, are impaired by viral damage to the brain and internal organs. It is possible to develop hepatitis, pneumonia, nephritis and other dangerous diseases in infants. The child often dies as a result of a convulsive syndrome or apnea (breathing stops).

Therapy of different types of herpes

Acute herpetic stomatitis

The disease begins acutely with fever, refusal to eat, severe salivation. The child's gums swell and turn red, and after two or three days specific sores appear. Severe intoxication, high fever, aphthae in the oral cavity - all these are symptoms of herpes simplex in babies. The infection is more often diagnosed in children under one year old, less often at 2 years old, in children older than 3–4 years.

Herpesviruses I and II types can affect both the oral cavity and the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. Similar ulcerative lesions are caused by type VI of the herpes virus.

How to treat a herpes infection in the nose and mouth in children:

• Chamomile mouthwash.
• Acyclovir or other antiviral agents.
• Solutions of furacilin and rivanol for wiping the oral mucosa.
• Immunostimulating, interferon-containing drugs (cycloferon, viferon).

When in an infant the disease begins as stomatitis, the baby often infects the skin itself. If the age of children is 2 years, the treatment of lesions of the skin and mucous membranes is carried out with the cream "Acyclovir". The dose for babies up to 2 years is reduced by half. Acyclovir improves the well-being of children on the second day of treatment. Apply the product every hour up to 5 times a day. The course of treatment is from 5 to 10 days.

Genital herpes

The disease develops when children are infected by contact and household contact from parents or other carriers of herpesvirus II, less often type I. At first, the child feels skin tension, itching, burning begins. Then bubbles appear in the same place. When the elements of the rash are opened, erosions of various shapes and depths are formed.

With genital herpes, vesicles appear on the skin of the inguinal region, on the thighs, and on the mucous membrane of the genitals. At the same time, infection of the urinary tract is possible, then urination becomes painful, the temperature rises to subfebrile values. Without treatment, cellular immunity is formed within 2–3 weeks; with treatment, the disease is relieved earlier.

Ophthalmoherpes

Options for the defeat of the virus of the organ of vision - keratitis and conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers. First, the conjunctiva turns red, vesicles appear on the skin of the eyelids, under the eyelashes, then lacrimation and photophobia join. After 24-72 hours, the infection passes to the cornea, after 3-4 weeks it stops. For newborns, the disease is dangerous with severe ophthalmic lesions. As a result, the cornea becomes cloudy and visual acuity decreases. Herpes keratitis is treated with Acyclovir eye ointment for herpes for children, placing a small amount of the drug in the conjunctival sac 5 times / day for a week.

Herpetic infection in the nervous system (NS)

After the penetration of the herpes virus into the central nervous system, encephalitis or meningoencephalitis may develop in children. The causative agent of the disease penetrates into the neurons of the brain and spinal cord through the bloodstream, as well as along the nerve pathways. The infection can be latent for a long time and is activated during hormonal changes, after injuries, under extreme climatic conditions.

Herpetic encephalitis is characterized by the severity of symptoms, dangerous consequences for the health and development of the child. Timely use of an agent with acyclovir to stop the infection reduces the likelihood of death, although the risk of neurological complications is quite high. Complex therapy is required, then long-term rehabilitation treatment is necessary.

The generalized form of herpes is as severe as herpetic encephalitis and meningitis. Clinical manifestations, symptoms depend on which organ is more affected. Most often, the pathological process develops in the liver, less often in the lungs, heart, pancreas.

Complex treatment of herpes in children

It is necessary to use medications that inhibit the activity of the virus and increase the body's immunoreactivity. Medicines based on acyclovir relieve pain and discomfort, accelerate the drying of blisters and the formation of crusts. The advantage of such drugs is a positive effect on the immune system (immunostimulating effect).

Medicines with a specific antiviral effect

The solution to the problem of how to treat herpes has the most important aspect - the need to use antiviral agents. Such drugs stop exacerbations, prevent new rashes and relapses. The most well-known antiviral drugs contain acyclovir. Trade names of drugs with this active ingredient: Zovirax, Acyclovir, Cyclovir. The main dosage forms are creams, ointments, tablets, powders for making solutions.

Acyclovir injections and tablets for children with herpes:

1. Teenagers over 12 years old- administer intravenously at 5 mg/1 kg of body weight three times a day (after 8 hours).
2. Children after 2 years- inside 1 tablet 200 mg 5 times / day, for prevention - 1 tablet four times a day.
3. Herpes simplex in a 1 year old- inside 0.5 tablets 5 times / day for five days, for prevention - 0.5 tablets 4 times / day.

Acyclovir effectively fights herpes simplex viruses I and II types, Varicella zoster, Epstein-Barr.

Side effects of acyclovir:

• abdominal pain, nausea;
• difficulty breathing;
• skin rashes;
• stool disorders;
• headache:
• fatigue;
• drowsiness.

The antiviral drug "Florenal" effectively suppresses the activity of the herpes virus. Three dosage forms are produced: drops, ointment and eye films. The drug "Florenal" is used for herpetic lesions of the skin, eyes, for stomatitis, herpes zoster. The duration of therapy is from 3 to 14 days. Doctors recommend combining treatment with drops and Florenal ointment.

Ointment "Gevizosh" with the active ingredient epervudine is used externally as an antiherpetic agent, active against herpes simplex and herpes zoster viruses. On the affected area, the ointment is applied in a thin layer up to 4-5 times a day, for 5 days. It is recommended to start therapy at the first symptoms of herpes. Antiviral treatment of children, as well as immunocorrection, must be carried out under the supervision of a pediatrician.

Every person faces the herpes virus sooner or later, and this usually happens in childhood. Colds on the lips, chickenpox, shingles, sudden exanthema and other diseases - these are all his antics. How does infection occur, what symptoms appear, and how is a herpes infection treated in children?

Herpes is a viral disease with a characteristic eruption of grouped vesicles on the skin and mucous membranes.

Herpes virus and its varieties

Translated from Greek, herpes is a creeping skin disease. She affects the skin and mucous membranes. Each type of virus has its own “favorite” place on the human body. Therefore, they cause different diseases.

There are about a hundred varieties of herpes, but only 8 of them are dangerous to humans:

• type 1 - causes a rash on the lips;

The first type is transmitted quite easily: through common dishes, kisses, by airborne droplets.

• 2 types - the cause of rashes on the genitals;
• 3 types - develops or shingles;
• 4 types (another name is the Epstein-Barr virus) - the causative agent of infectious mononucleosis;
• type 5 (cytomegalovirus) - causes cytomegalovirus infection;
• and multiple sclerosis in adults.

What diseases causes the herpetic virus type 7, science has not yet figured out exactly. It is thought to be associated with chronic fatigue syndrome and sudden skin rashes. And type 8 is the cause of malignant neoplasms on the skin, defined as Kaposi's sarcoma.

Methods of infection

Herpes is contagious. It is most often transmitted in one of two ways:

• Airborne route. So you can get infected from patients with chickenpox, or shingles, if you are near them.
• Direct contact. The infection is transmitted through kissing, shaking hands and hugging. But sometimes it’s enough just to use common objects: dry yourself with the same towel, touch the railing or the doorknob. This method of infection is characteristic of all types of the virus.

It is possible to infect children through toys.

Konstantin Vladislavovich Blashentsev, an immunologist, notes:

“Herpes can be passed from mother to child if she first encountered this disease during pregnancy. Sometimes the infection crosses the placental barrier, which is especially dangerous in the first trimester. It causes a miscarriage or the birth of a baby with deformities. Infection in the later stages rarely leads to fetal death, but the risk of developing anomalies remains. If the expectant mother did not have time to recover before the birth, then a decision is made on a planned caesarean section in order to exclude the transmission of the virus through direct contact.

Attention! The most common herpes are types 1, 2 and 3. But in most cases, by the time of pregnancy, women have already developed immunity to them, so the fetus is safe.

And other herpetic diseases are rare, so do not be afraid - they are unlikely to become infected while carrying a child.

The virus can get to the child from the mother when the fetus is still in the womb, or during childbirth.

immunity to herpes

After infection with a herpes infection, antibodies form in the blood. They are produced only to the type of virus that has entered the body. A kind of immunity is formed. But after recovery, herpes remains in human nerve cells, waiting for a favorable moment to start breeding again. Therefore, in its carrier, the disease can be repeated many times in a lifetime.

This is interesting! If chickenpox is a herpes infection, why does it only happen once? The fact is that the symptoms of the primary disease (when the pathogen first entered the body) often differ from diseases caused by microbes that have “woken up” inside. The second and subsequent times, carriers of the type 3 virus develop shingles. It is contagious and can cause the same chicken pox that, in rare cases, people get sick twice in a lifetime.

Who is more susceptible to the virus

Children are more susceptible to herpes for the reason that they do not yet have immunity against it. But already from the first years, babies are faced with viruses to which antibodies are produced. However, the formed immunity does not protect against recurrent illness by 100%. To understand why, consider the life stages of an infection inside the human body:

1. Primary entry of herpes into the body.
2. Disease development.
3. Recovery with the formation of antibodies that will always be found in the blood.
4. The transition of the infection to a chronic form (it "sleeps", being localized in nerve cells).
5. Weakened immunity for various reasons, leading to a decrease in the concentration of antibodies.
6. Activation of herpes (its release from nerve cells into the bloodstream).

Steps 2-6 are a vicious circle.

If the baby's immunity is reduced, then herpes can develop again.

Herpetic disease can re-develop if:

• The child has a cold as a result, the immune system was "distracted" from the production of antibodies to previously transferred diseases.
• Baby is not eating well(receives insufficient vitamin and mineral substances), which leads to a weakening of the immune system.
• Overheating has occurred(often happens during holidays in the south).

Overheating in the sun can cause illness.

• The child's body has moved severe stress.
• An overdose of active virus has been received with which the antibodies in the blood could not cope. This can happen through direct contact with a sick person (for example, when kissing mom or dad with a cold on the lips).

This is interesting! 5% of children are born with innate immunity, laid down genetically (it is inherited from parents). But that doesn't mean they never get sick. When receiving too large a dose, the activation of the virus is also possible.

Symptoms

Since different types of herpes virus cause different diseases, the symptoms that appear with them will also be different. Consider only those diseases that occur in children.

Colds on the lips (type 1)

The main symptom of herpes on the lip of a child is a rash that is a large collection of blisters (vesicles) filled with fluid. The affected area looks red, itchy and itchy. Sometimes the disease affects the mucous membrane of the nose and eyes. Optional, but sometimes symptoms occur:

• elevated body temperature (up to 38 degrees);
• swollen lymph nodes.

Signs of a cold on the lips are rashes in the mouth, weakness and fever.

Bubbles burst during combing or on their own 2-4 days after formation. In their place, a weeping crust appears, which eventually dries up and disappears.

Duration: from 5 to 12 days.

Genital herpes (type 2)

Usually this disease is sexually transmitted and occurs only in adults. But the baby can also become infected from the mother during pregnancy (through the placenta) or childbirth(contact method). The virus can enter the child's body if sick parents do not wash their hands after going to the toilet and touch common items, hug the baby.

The symptoms of genital herpes are exactly the same as cold sores. These diseases differ only in localization: the type 2 virus causes a rash on the mucous membranes of the genital organs.

Duration: up to 10 days, rarely - up to 4 weeks.

Chickenpox (type 3)

The development of symptoms begins 1-3 weeks after infection. Are noted:

• high temperature (up to 39-40 degrees);
• headache;
• rash on the body, on the face, and sometimes in the nose and mouth;
• itching and burning.

On average, chickenpox goes away in children in a week.

Rashes are characterized by first a red spot forms, then a bubble forms in its place. Over time, it bursts, and a sore appears. It gradually dries up and becomes covered with a crust, which falls off within 10 days. This moment characterizes the beginning of recovery.

Duration - 7-10 days.

Herpes zoster (type 3)

If the baby has already had chickenpox, but his immunity is greatly weakened, shingles may develop. Viruses dormant in the spinal cord become active and cause the following symptoms:

• high body temperature;
• neuralgic pain (along the affected nerve);
• rashes on the body.

Rash with lichen.

The stages of development of the rash are the same as those of chickenpox: first redness, then a vesicle, then an ulcer, a crust and its discharge. The difference is that with chickenpox, the vesicles are singly scattered throughout the body. And with lichen, they gather in groups, forming papules, the size of which is impressive: they seem to encircle the entire body. Hence the name of the disease.

Duration - 3-4 weeks.

Infectious mononucleosis (type 4)

This is a rare disease that occurs in one baby in 5,000-10,000 children. It is not dangerous, but long: the incubation period is from 5 to 21 days, and the time of virus activity is about 2 months.

Symptoms:

• weakness;
• cough as with or;
• muscle pain and aching joints;
• dizziness and headaches;
• increased body temperature;
• swollen lymph nodes;

Enlarged lymph nodes are a characteristic feature of mononucleosis.

• sore throat when swallowing;
• enlargement of the spleen and / or liver.

With infectious mononucleosis, immunity is greatly weakened. Therefore, the addition of type 1 herpes (rash on the lips) and frequent acute respiratory infections can be considered as additional symptoms.

Cytomegaly (type 5)

Every twentieth baby inherited cytomegalovirus from a carrier mother. But only one of the infected children shows signs of the disease. And only 5% of patients experience such consequences as calcium accumulation in soft tissues, reduced intelligence and psychomotor retardation. Symptoms of the disease resemble or infectious mononucleosis.

Duration - 1-1.5 months.

Sudden exanthema (type 6)

Treatment of herpes in children

Regardless of the type of herpetic infection, the following is prescribed:

• Plentiful drink (tea, fruit drinks, fruit drinks, plain water).

You need to drink a lot!
Even if you don't want to.
For the disease to come out.

• Antipyretics at a temperature of 38 degrees: children's forms or (). These same medicines help to cope with pain in the muscles and joints.

At a temperature, give the baby an antipyretic, for example, Nurofen.

• Antiviral drugs to which herpes is sensitive.

The method of application of the latter depends on the type of disease. Three forms of medicine are allowed:

• Ointment(used for rashes on the lips, genitals, chickenpox and shingles).
• Pills(used for all types of virus, if you need a strong effect).
• Solutionsfor intravenous administration(Needed for severe courses of various types of herpetic infection).

Overview of antivirals:

• . Effective against types 1, 2 and 3. Suitable for children from 3 months. The price of the ointment is from 15, the tablets are from 25, the powder for preparing the solution is from 200 rubles.

Acyclovir is prescribed to treat the first three types of herpes.

• Zovirax is an analogue of Acyclovir. Tablets - from 450, ointment - from 250 rubles.
• Virolex is another analogue of Acyclovir. Available only in the form of tablets. The average price is 230 rubles.
• Viru-Merz serol (against species 1 and 2). Available only in the form of a gel. The tool is not recommended for children, but pediatricians still sometimes prescribe it. It costs about 300 rubles.

Treatment of chickenpox, herpes on the lips and genitals consists in applying the ointment 3-5 times a day with a thin layer until the rash disappears completely. Sudden exanthema does not need to be treated - the baby is only given an antipyretic until the temperature returns to normal. And the rash will pass quickly by itself, leaving no traces.

Important! If you suspect types 3-6, it is better to invite a doctor to your house, as they are very contagious: everyone who was next to you in the clinic can catch the infection.

And hospitalization is indicated only in severe forms of the disease, damage to the nervous system or eyes.

Contact your doctor if:

• In a child, herpes on the lips appears more often 3-4 times a year. It is required to find out the reason for the decrease in immunity.
• You have found signs of chickenpox or shingles, as a severe course of the disease is possible. Medically supervised treatment is required.

See your doctor at the first sign of chickenpox.

• SARS symptoms do not go away within a few weeks. The baby needs to be checked for infectious mononucleosis and cytomegalovirus.

Venus writes in a review:

“At the age of 3, my son brought chickenpox from the kindergarten. The doctor recommended treating the rash so that the child would not be bothered by itching. The drug distracted from combing the bubbles. I also used it for my daughter at 2 years old, who immediately became infected from her brother. The remedy does not affect the duration of the disease, but it helps to transfer it more easily.

Poksklin with chickenpox - saves from itching and promotes recovery.

The peculiarity of a herpetic infection is that it cannot be cured forever. Komarovsky notes that the detection of antibodies to viruses in the blood is good. This means that the child is already immune. And he is perfectly healthy, if there are no external manifestations of the disease.

Issue of Dr. Komarovsky's school on herpes in children:

Diet

As a result of scientific research, it was found that herpetic viruses are sensitive to two proteins:

• arginine (contributes to the activation of a dormant infection);
• lysine (does not "wake up").

To recover faster, you need to eliminate (or reduce the amount consumed) foods containing arginine from the diet:

• chocolate;
• nuts and seeds;
• grains and legumes.

And the menu should include foods rich in lysine:

• shrimps;
• sea ​​fish;
• milk;

Include milk in your toddler's diet.

• natural yogurt.

Ginger, lemon, onion and garlic will also help to increase immunity resistance.

Complications and consequences

Complications after herpetic infection are rare, but they can be dangerous:

• damage to internal organs (liver, heart);
• dysfunction of the nervous system;
• development of rheumatoid arthritis;
• miscarriage and deformities in the fetus if the woman was sick during pregnancy.

Alexandra writes:

“During pregnancy, I took a blood test. Result: cytomegalovirus - positive reaction. I was afraid that my baby would now be born handicapped. But the doctor reassured me: the detection of antibodies is good. This means that the fetus will receive them from me and will not get sick.”

After chicken pox, scars sometimes remain on the skin. To prevent them from forming, do not let the child scratch the bubbles.

Prevention

For children who have never encountered herpes, it is important to exclude contact with patients. To prevent a relapse, if the baby already has antibodies to a herpes infection, prevention will help:

• proper nutrition;

A balanced diet has been and remains an effective measure of disease prevention.

• hardening;
• personal hygiene;
• lack of emotional and physical overstrain.

Vaccines are great for prevention. Against types 1 and 2 - Vitagerpavak, from chickenpox - Diavax or Varilrix.

Herpes is a virus that lives inside 95% of people. He is waiting for a favorable moment to activate and begin to multiply. Common herpetic diseases are not dangerous for children and can go away on their own. But itchy rashes are very unpleasant. Therefore, the awakened infection can and should be treated.

Alisa Nikitina