Type 1 herpes simplex virus is quite common in the North American population. Estimates indicate that close to 90% of the North American population may have this virus. The majority of individuals only have a sub clinical infection – meaning no symptoms. The virus is almost always acquired in childhood and often presents sub clinically. Only about 1:100 children develop a full blown herpes simplex infection around the mouth. When an adult develops the infection, it is most likely due to reactivation of the virus.
In adults, most individuals have a prodromal period- meaning that there are no obvious symptoms but just a feeling that something is not right. The initial symptoms in most individuals with herpes simplex are either a lack of sensation or a tingling feeling around the lips.
Herpes simplex virus is easily acquired and highly contagious. For some known reason it has a great affinity for the mouth and lips area. Occasionally the same herpes 1 virus will infect the gums and sometimes the eye. Herpes simplex lesions on the mouth are often known as fever blisters or cold sores.
The lesions are small blister like and contain fluid. In the unfortunate individual, the herpetic lesions may also occur in the presence of wounds infections. Numerous adults are exposed to herpes virus but less than 10% actually develop the painful sores.
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