Herpes treatment at home for a 6 year old child. Herpes in children: types, symptoms and treatment. Features of infection in infants. Complications caused by relapse

The most common virus found on earth. Children are classified as a separate risk group due to the fact that their immunity, depending on their age, is either only in its infancy or is often weakened due to hormonal surges.

Therefore, parents should carefully study the information about this disease in order to respond in time and prevent complications in children.

What types of virus do children get sick with?

Herpes is a virus that causes the formation of watery blisters. main feature the fact that when it enters the human body, it settles in all organs. It is impossible to cure him. Treatment is reduced to bringing it to a latent state in which it does not appear on the skin.

Doctors count 80-100 species and subspecies, but children most often get sick 6:

Virus herpes simplex or 1 type, which affects only the skin in the mouth and eyes.
Herpes type 2 affecting the skin in the genital area.
Herpes type 3, covering the entire body.
which calls .
, which affects tissue in the salivary glands.
Herpes 6 type or pseudocranuha.

Transmission routes

The infection occurs asymptomatically and it is impossible to understand that the child is already sick. In addition, if the immune system is working normally, it immediately releases antibodies that block the activity of herpes and causes it to enter the latent stage.

Herpes is transmitted from a carrier of the virus to healthy child in the following ways:

Airborne by during the active phase of the disease in the carrier.
At general use canteens and other things where it is possible contact between the mucous membranes of the carrier and the child, it is not necessary that the carrier has it in the active phase.
By contact: during other contacts between the mucous membranes of the carrier and the recipient.
Transmission from mother during pregnancy, childbirth, etc.

It is worth noting that the risk of infection of a child from a mother during pregnancy increases if the infection is primary, and decreases if it worsens.

The reasons for the virus to enter the active phase in children are weakened immunity due to stress, poor diet, cold season and colds. In addition, herpes awakens when exposed to cold wind.

Symptoms in children

Symptoms different types herpes infection varies greatly depending on the age of the child. This is due to the development immune system. Therefore, when determining the virus, it is worth taking into account the age of the child.

Symptoms in infants, neonatal herpes

Symptoms depend on the period during which the virus became infected. If the fetus is infected at an early or mid-term stage, then at birth it exhibits the following disorders: epilepsy, central infantile paralysis, destruction or partial disruption of the liver, inflammatory processes in the lungs, eye damage.

Infection that occurs during childbirth or within two weeks after it is called neonatal herpes. It is divided into three forms, depending on the symptoms:

Localized form. It is characterized only by the appearance of the eyes, mouth and genitals.
Generalized form. Manifested by lethargy, breathing problems, malfunction of the liver and adrenal glands, regurgitation, convulsions, yellowness of the mucous membranes.
Amazing form. Manifests high temperature, lethargy with transition to agitation, vomiting, convulsions.

Clinical manifestations in young children

The disease is milder in younger children than in older children. The acute phase of the virus manifests itself in a small amount and the appearance of a rash at the site of its entry into the body. However, if, then it is accompanied by high fever, difficulty breathing, inflammation of the tonsils and enlarged lymph nodes.

Symptoms in older children

In older children, the active phase of the virus occurs with high fever, headache, rash, acute itching at the site of the rash, fatigue and irritability, joint pain, inflammatory processes on the mucous membranes, problems with the organs of vision.

Why is it dangerous?

The virus itself is harmless even with treatment, except discomfort in the form of itching and rash, does not cause any problems. However, due to the similarity of symptoms with other diseases, it often develops into a severe form, which already gives the following complications:

serious damage to the organs of vision that leads to blindness;
disorders of the liver and adrenal glands;
serious disruption nervous system(cerebral palsy, epilepsy);
the formation of blood clots in small vessels - disseminated intravascular coagulation syndrome;
the appearance of gingivitis.

However, neonatal herpes is considered the most dangerous, especially its generalized and damaging form. In these cases, the mortality rate of newborn children reaches 90%. Therefore, it is important to timely determine the presence of the virus in infants.

Diagnostic methods

Diagnosing the presence of a virus in the active phase is not difficult. upon examination, it can with a high degree of probability determine the type based on visible symptoms. However, to confirm the diagnosis and to exclude the similarity of symptoms with other diseases, laboratory tests are prescribed, which with a 100% guarantee reveal both the type and stage of development of the virus.

General laboratory examination methods

TO general research include the cultural method and the immunofluorescence reaction (RIF).

The cultural method involves growing the virus contained in the patient’s biomaterial taken in a specialized nutrient medium. These studies make it possible to determine the type of herpes with a high probability. The only drawback of the method is the time it takes, which is 1-2 weeks.

The second common test that is prescribed is RIF. The principle of the study is to examine the patient’s biomaterial treated with a special composition under a microscope. This method is used during the active phase of the disease, when the number of antibodies in the body is high.

Serodiagnosis: ELISA, PCR

If standard methods do not provide an accurate answer, then more in-depth studies are carried out: serodiagnosis, .

Serodiagnosis determines the presence of class G antibodies, which determine the type of virus. This test is prescribed if genital herpes is suspected. The material used is the patient's blood.

ELISA is divided into qualitative and quantitative. In both cases it is determined IgM antibodies and IgG. There are more of the former during the active phase, and of the latter during the latent period. The type of these antibodies shows the type of virus, and the amount indicates its phase.

CPR is based on a large number of repetitions of part of the patient's DNA. This method is fast and helps determine the type of virus even in its latent state.

Treatment methods

As was written above, it is impossible to completely cure herpes, however, during the active phase, it must be transferred to the latent period as soon as possible. Because of large quantity types of virus, treatment is prescribed individually after receiving the results laboratory research and studying the health status of a particular child.

General principles of treatment

Although there is no single treatment, the technique for all types of the virus is similar:

IN active period. In addition, immunoreplacement therapy medications are prescribed, which facilitate the functioning of the child’s own immune system.
IN latent period, after undergoing the active phase, immunomodulators are prescribed that restore the person’s natural defense system.
During the active phase, both drug prevention and a general set of measures to strengthen the immune system are used.

Safe drugs

Of the antiviral drugs, the most widely used is Virolex. Bonaftone and riodoxol ointments are used for application to rash lesions. From medicines immunoreplacement therapy is mainly prescribed, Rebif, Cytotex.

The most commonly used immunomodulators are cycloferon, tamerite, immunofan, and ferrovir. To strengthen the immune system, a complex is prescribed.

The doctor's main thesis is that herpes is not a problem or a tragedy, but a common nuisance.
Dr. Komarovsky advises the following:

If a virus appears, you should consult a doctor to determine its type.
Do not self-medicate, as this leads to complications due to the advanced stage of the disease.
Increase children's immunity. For this it is worth leading healthy image life: exercise, eat right, protect your baby from stress, etc.
A must do for chicken pox.

School of Doctor Komarovsky:

Prevention methods

In children, it is to maintain their immune system at high level. To do this you need:

rich in vitamins, fats and carbohydrates;
regular exercise and being in the fresh air;
taking multivitamins if necessary;
absence of stressful situations.

To prevent complications during the active phase of the virus in the fetus and newborns, to the expectant mother It is necessary to constantly check yourself for the presence of herpes. If it is detected, you should immediately make an appointment with a doctor for consultation.

Herpes is a general name for a number of diseases that cause different kinds herpes virus. Such a virus can infect any organ in the human body. Children often get herpes because their immune system is not yet fully developed, and the virus is transmitted by airborne droplets.

Herpes on a child’s body is accompanied by pain and itching, sometimes fever. Symptoms depend entirely on the type of herpes that the child has contracted.

Types of Herpes

There are several varieties of this virus, however, most often, children get primary herpes. Moreover, from birth, young children, as a rule, receive immunity from their mother, and until the age of 3-4 years, the likelihood of getting sick is very low.

Modern doctors identify 6 types of viruses that children can become infected with:

Routes of transmission and symptoms of herpes

Experts state that by the age of 5-6 years, the herpes virus is already in the body of 85% of children. Therefore, all parents should know how herpes is transmitted, what contributes to its manifestation and what its first symptoms are.

The most common routes of transmission of herpes virus infection in children:

contact with a carrier of the virus;
while using utensils or any clothing of a sick person;
during pregnancy and childbirth from mother to child;
during breastfeeding, in case of relapse of herpes in the mother.

Factors contributing to the frequent manifestation of herpes in children:

general condition of the body and immunity;
stressful situations;
the presence of an infectious disease and weakening of the body;
injuries;
active sun (summer is the season of exacerbation of such diseases);
elevated temperature, drying of mucous membranes (for example, when a child is dehydrated or overheated).

Symptoms of herpes in children depend on the stage of the disease and the age of the child. They look like this:

Types of herpes and their manifestations in children

Usually a virus for a long time is in the body without manifesting itself, and is activated only after a decrease in protective forces due to illness, overwork, stress, hypothermia. In this case, group rashes appear on the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, and genitals.

Genital herpes

Considered especially dangerous for pregnant women due to possible transfer virus to the baby at birth. Genital herpes in a child can appear in the first days of life with varying degrees gravity. There are such forms:

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Genital herpes in a baby can cause significant complications and unpleasant consequences, such as:

eye and hearing complications;
disorders of cardiovascular activity;
neurological lesions;
diseases internal organs;
defects in the subsequent development of the child.

In adolescence, herpes in intimate area can manifest itself in the form of rashes: in girls - on the vaginal mucosa, in boys - on the penis. It is transmitted only through sexual contact.

Signs of genital herpes:

feeling of heaviness and pain in the lower abdomen;
rashes in the intimate area;
pain when urinating;
bad dream, headache, overwork.

How to treat herpes in this form in a teenager should be recommended by a doctor after examination and diagnosis. the main task At the same time, maintain personal hygiene and complete the full course of treatment.

Herpes encephalitis in children and its complications

Among viral diseases, negatively and deeply affecting the nervous system, about 6% belongs to the herpes virus. The consequences of penetration of such a herpes virus into a child can be the most severe: from disturbances in brain function to death.

Herpes encephalitis in children begins to develop during primary infection, penetrating directly into the brain and causing severe disturbances. Mortality from this type of virus is up to 80% of cases, and the remaining 20% lead to disability (epilepsy, pronounced dementia, hydrocephalus).

At the beginning, the disease is expressed by a sharp jump in temperature, and the rash on the skin is similar to ordinary herpes. But after 2-3 days, convulsions, loss of consciousness, and vomiting (not related to food intake) may appear. If herpes is suspected in children, such symptoms clearly indicate the herpetic form of encephalitis.

When such a diagnosis is made, treatment occurs only in a hospital setting, sometimes the child ends up in intensive care.

Treatment for this form of herpes in children is carried out using complex therapy Acyclovir and immunobiological drugs. At the same time, therapy is carried out to help reduce brain swelling and detoxify the body.

To improve the child’s condition, the following are subsequently carried out additionally:

massage;
physical therapy exercises;
physiotherapy;
treatment in special sanatoriums.

Labial herpes

The location of the rashes in the area of the nasolabial triangle is most common in both children and adults and they are caused by HSV-1 and HSV-2.

Herpes on a child's face can be on the cheeks, lips, eyebrows, chin, forehead, in the child's nose, near the ears and eyes. The nature of the pain and the blisters themselves are usually similar, the difference being the size of the affected area of skin. Symptoms also vary from child to child: it is possible toothache or high temperature.

Herpes on or near the child's nose is manifested by the same rashes, but some parents may mistake it for a manifestation of dermatitis. Treatment is carried out with ointments and medicines, as with other forms of herpes.

If the herpes is located in the nose (inside on the mucous membrane), the rash differs in appearance and resembles abscesses. All rashes should be lubricated with ointment. The child needs to be provided with separate towels and handkerchiefs, and his close contacts with other people should be limited.

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Each time after blowing his nose, he should wash his hands with soap. Additionally, to soften the crusts and relieve itching, you can use folk remedies: lubricating the nose with fir oil or propolis tincture.

Herpes caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus

Less common in medical practice rashes on other areas of the skin, for example, herpes on a child’s leg occurs only after touching someone else’s things or objects, or due to touching first the sore spot and then the leg.

If the rash is located on the feet or toes, then probable cause is the varicella zoster virus. To accurately determine the type of virus, you need to take your child to the doctor and get tested. This is important because therapeutic methods Treatments for different types of virus differ.

The effect of this type of virus on a child depends on the state of his immune system. With low immunity in children (as well as in adults), herpes zoster is characterized by severe pain.

Another unpleasant pattern is that this virus can spread throughout the body (that’s why it’s called shingles).

A sign of such a virus is also unilateral herpes on the child’s cheek, or on other parts of the body (also on one side). The rashes usually tend to cluster together and form very painful patches. It is very difficult to treat.

Treatment of herpes infection

Every parent should know exactly how and how to treat herpes in children in order to begin treatment in a timely manner and eliminate the possibility of serious consequences for the child’s body. The treatment process should begin after the first suspicion of herpes - this will speed up the healing process.

Herpes infection in children in advanced forms develops into chronic illness and can cause serious complications.

Treatment of herpes in children involves the use in combination of:

Let us refute the misconception of some parents who ask whether it is possible to smear herpes with brilliant green or alcohol? This should not be done under any circumstances, because... these substances contain alcohol, which causes burns to the skin and mucous membranes. It is completely useless to smear herpes with any cauterizing agent - it will not affect the virus in any way.

Prevention of herpes

Parents asking the question of how to cure herpes completely can only answer one thing: it is impossible to eliminate such a disease forever; any treatment for this disease is aimed solely at preventing or reducing the number of relapses (repeated manifestations).

Preventive measures depend on the form of herpes:

It is also necessary to teach the child to follow these rules:

personal hygiene;
prohibition of using other people's things;
avoid communication with sick people;
during epidemics, use antiviral ointments in the nose.

The most effective rule aimed at preventing herpes in children is to constantly monitor the health and condition of the child’s skin, so that at the first sign of herpes, seek advice from a doctor as soon as possible. pediatrician and begin treatment immediately.

Do you still think that it is impossible to get rid of herpes forever?

Questions of symptoms, methods of treating herpes in children and its consequences are of interest to many parents. It is especially important to know how this very dangerous disease manifests itself in young children who cannot yet speak.

Most of the population of our planet are carriers of the herpes virus. It penetrates the body in a variety of ways. The disease can begin immediately or after some time, when the child is especially weakened due to illness, fatigue or nervous strain.

Infection can be prevented by knowing how to protect children from herpes from the time they are born until they reach puberty, when their immune system has stabilized.

Causes of the disease

Dr. Komarovsky in his programs very popularly and reasonably described the preconditions that contribute to the occurrence of herpes in a child. The source of infection is a carrier of the virus or a person whose disease is in the acute stage.

Routes of transmission of infection can be:

Herpes in the blood of a newborn can long time remain dormant. The first months of his life he is protected by immunity, which he inherited from his mother.

The virus can survive on household items for several days while remaining active. Treatment of herpes in children should begin when the first signs of this disease are detected. It can manifest itself in different ways, depending on the type of virus.

Characteristic symptoms

Herpes viral infection in children most often occurs between the ages of 3 and 5 years. At this time, children begin to move independently. They actively explore the world not only visually, but also through touch, tasting all objects. Children begin to attend kindergarten and contact with peers. As they grow older, they stop putting all sorts of objects into their mouths, which significantly reduces the risk of infection.

When an infection enters the body incubation period can last from one day to a month.

It spreads throughout the body and lingers in the nervous system, becoming more active at the slightest disruption in the functioning of the immune system. Each type of disease has its own characteristics. But there are signs that are common to all types of the disease.

The following symptoms of herpes in children are observed at the onset of the disease:

increase in body temperature to 38–39ºС;
weakness, lethargy and irritability;
aches in the joints of the arms and legs;
excruciating headache;
lack of appetite;
rashes of various types.

The manifestation of the disease is individual in each child. This factor is determined by age, level of development and the presence of concomitant infectious diseases. Main sign The signs that children have developed viral herpes are single or multiple rashes.

What are the types of herpes?

A child may have one of eight types of virus in his blood, into which herpes is divided. This broad classification is justified clinical picture, which is characteristic of different types of disease.

HSV types 1 and 2

The photo shows the first type of virus, which is the most common. Almost every child who reaches adulthood is affected by it. Complications at work provoke the occurrence of the disease gastrointestinal tract, respiratory organs, nervous and reproductive systems.

When a child develops herpes type 1, the following symptoms are observed:

temperature rise to 39ºС;
the appearance of many small ulcers in the mouth;
rashes on the lips, nose and chin.

The disease begins with unpleasant sensations at the site of future rashes. Over time, bubbles form and spread to adjacent areas when damaged.

Herpes type 2. As a rule, medicine associates it with damage to the genital organs. In most cases, the disease occurs in adolescents who began early sexual activity. The disease can also occur in newborns due to infection from the mother during pregnancy or childbirth.

This type of illness can manifest itself with the following symptoms:

rashes on the genitals, spreading to their entire outer part;
changes in the skin resembling diaper rash;
general malaise and weakness;
rashes in the nasopharynx and tonsils if herpetic sore throat is provoked;
chills and fever.

Genital infections are particularly difficult. The virus causes extensive rashes throughout the body, disturbances in the digestive system and brain activity.

Other types of virus

Consequences of herpes in children

It is not the pathogenic HSV that poses a health hazard, but the complications that arise if a child’s herpes is not treated. Himself great risk newborns whose bodies are not prepared to fight a serious illness are exposed. Lack of qualified and operational medical care may result in disability and death for children.

The consequences of having herpes can be the following diseases:

cerebral palsy;
meningitis;
eye damage (iridocyclitis, episcleritis, keratoconjunctivitis, corneal erosion, uveitis, chorioretinitis) or blindness;
epilepsy;
Down syndrome;
chronic liver and kidney diseases.

To avoid this, it is necessary to treat herpes in children immediately after the first signs of its manifestation appear. This will allow the disease to be stopped at an early stage.

Diagnostics

Since the child’s body is in the formative stage, his immune system is not able to resist dangerous infection. In order to accurately and correctly determine how to treat herpes, a thorough diagnosis is carried out.

Examination of a sick child includes the following methods:

Examination by a pediatrician. During this procedure, the doctor takes the patient's general vital signs, evaluates his condition, and external manifestations diseases.
A biochemical blood test is performed, urine and feces are examined. If oncology is suspected, histological studies fabric samples.
Virological culture. Scrapings are taken from the rash to determine the virus antigen. The material for the study is blood, skin and fluid from the blisters.
Carrying out ultrasound diagnostics and magnetic resonance imaging to determine the extent of damage to the brain and internal organs.
Consultation with relevant specialists. This helps to identify the cause that provoked the weakening of the immune system.

After the studies have been carried out, the attending physician puts final diagnosis and gives recommendations on how to treat the child.

General rules for treating a child for HSV

Herpes is a type of virus that no drugs can destroy. After entering the body, the virus penetrates nerve cells and remains there until the end of a person’s life. Its activation occurs whenever the child’s body reaches a weakened state.

At the first signs of the disease, the following measures must be taken:

Isolate the child from others. This is necessary in order to prevent their infection and protect the patient from infection with other diseases.
Provide the child with bed rest. Do not allow him to go outside or walk freely around the apartment.
Keep the room clean. Wash and dust floors regularly. Ventilate the room at least twice a day.
Ensure that the patient drinks as much fluid as possible. You can give him juice, tea, fruit drink and compote.
Provide regular and nutritious meals. Food should be rich in proteins, vitamins and carbohydrates.

If the baby has a high temperature, then you need to put a wet bandage on the forehead and wipe the limbs with a weak solution of vinegar.

Parents should not make diagnoses or choose medications on their own. The decision on how to cure herpes is the exclusive prerogative of the attending physician.

Drug therapy

Viral infection is treated exclusively with a conservative method. Surgical intervention used only in the most difficult cases, when the patient has developed complications in the form of necrosis, pathological edema and suppuration. As a rule, the fight against herpes is carried out comprehensively, using all available and safe drugs for the patient.

To get rid of the disease and its symptoms, the child is prescribed:

antihistamines - to reduce itching and prevent allergic reaction on medicinal products(Suprastin, Zirtek);
antiherpetic ointments - to prevent cracking of damaged areas of the skin and mucous membranes, to prevent the rash from spreading to other parts of the body (Acyclovir,);
antipyretic drugs - to prevent critical overheating of the patient and improve his well-being so that he is able to eat, drink and move independently (Nurofen, Paracetamol);
broad-spectrum and targeted antibiotics - with the development of concomitant bacterial infection;
- to strengthen the immune system and restore internal organs after exposure to viruses and antibiotics.

Treatment is carried out using injections, tablets and ointments. All medications are purchased only as prescribed by a doctor. Treatment adjustments are made every 2–3 days.

After the exacerbation period ends, the patient may be prescribed a course of physiotherapy.

Treatment with folk remedies

are not used as independent methods of treatment. They can only be used in combination with pharmacological drugs and physiotherapy. Recipes traditional medicine good because they strengthen the immune system, relieve irritation and inflammation.

The following procedures are safe for a child:

lotions on the affected area from celandine juice;
ingestion of lemon balm decoction;
compress of grated apples, potatoes and garlic;
applying plantain leaves to the rash;
rubbing the skin with the juice of wormwood, lemon or milkweed;
treatment of damaged areas with alcohol tincture of propolis;
applying a cloth soaked in a solution of calendula tincture and sea salt.

When using folk remedies you need to carefully look at the body's reaction. At the slightest sign of a negative perception of the medicine, the procedure should be stopped immediately.

Preventive actions

Prevention of herpes in children should be aimed at strengthening the immune system and the comprehensive development of the child, both physically and morally. To do this, it is necessary to provide the child with normal nutrition containing sufficient amounts of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins.

To prevent your baby from overheating or hypothermia, you need to choose a wardrobe for any weather.

Due attention should be paid to physical development and hardening of the body. At the same time, we should not forget that the child should not get too tired and get proper rest.

All identified infectious diseases must be treated until complete recovery. If herpes is detected in children, treatment should begin immediately.

There is the most big law meanness: if you have some important meeting coming up, taking a memorable photo or an interview for a new job, herpes will definitely appear on your face on that day. The appearance of this disease is not associated only with adulthood; most often, infection with herpes occurs in childhood, and in adulthood we see only an exacerbation of the viral infection.

Herpes infection is chronic. This is due to the fact that the herpes virus is localized in the nerve cells of the mucosa, where antiviral drugs cannot penetrate. It is in these cells that the virus lies dormant and begins to actively multiply when the body’s defenses are reduced.

Causes of herpes in children

Infection most often occurs through shared dishes, kisses, or a shared towel. Most often, children become infected with the herpes virus from adults (from their parents), as they are in close contact with them. Pacifiers pose a particular risk of infection to children. Very often you can observe a picture when a mother, before giving her baby a pacifier, licks it to remove excess microbes from its surface. At the same time, not a single mother thinks about how many bacteria and viruses are in her mouth, including herpes viruses. Under no circumstances should you lick your child’s personal items, only rinse with boiled water.

The herpes virus can persist on toys for some time, so it is very important to periodically boil toys, especially in kindergartens, where more than 10 children can play with the same toy per day. Therefore, in kindergartens all toys should only be plastic or rubber.

It is customary to distinguish two types herpetic infection: herpes types 1 and 2. Previously, it was believed that type 1 herpes could only cause damage to the mucous membranes of the lips (labial), and type 2 herpes could only cause damage to the genitals (genital). However, more recently, scientists have proven that both herpes type 1 and herpes type 2 can cause damage to both the lips and genitals. Therefore, if a mother, for example, has labial herpes, and she uses the baby's towel to wipe her face, and then wipes the baby with that towel after washing, the baby may develop genital herpes, although it was previously thought that it could only be transmitted through sexual contact.

Most often, herpes infection manifests itself against the background of colds, since this is when the child’s immunity decreases. It also leads to the development of herpes infection Not proper nutrition, vitamin deficiencies, frequent hypothermia, chronic stress. The season for the appearance of herpes infection is autumn-spring, when daylight hours shorten, the amount of vitamins and minerals entering the body decreases, and the temperature decreases environment. In some cases, herpetic infection may occur in the summer, and this is due to the presence of immunodeficiency conditions in the child or chronic hypothermia when using fans and air conditioners, or sunburn of the mucous membranes.

Symptoms of herpes in children

Symptoms of a herpes infection in a child are fever and a vesicular rash. The child’s body temperature may increase slightly, up to 37-37.5˚ C. In some cases, if the child’s body is weakened, the body temperature may rise to 38.5˚ C. The temperature usually lasts 2-3 days, and then decreases in the absence of complications . A vesicular rash appears on the mucous membrane of the lips against the background of hyperemia (redness) and swelling of the lip. Usually herpetic rash represented by 1-2 small bubbles filled with clear liquid. Due to compression nerve endings in the area of the rash, there is pain and itching in this area. After the vesicle is opened, a small ulcer forms in its place, which heals without leaving any marks. A feature of herpetic infection is that blisters appear in the same place with each exacerbation of the disease. This is explained by the fact that the herpes virus lives in the nerve fibers innervating this area.

With a significant decrease in immunity, the child’s condition can be very serious. He is worried about a significant increase in body temperature (sometimes up to 40˚ C), weakness, headache, and loss of appetite. A rash on the mucous membranes occupies a large area of the lip; after opening the blisters form wound surface, which is then covered with a crust. Wound healing occurs under this crust. In this condition, if there is no correct treatment, children may develop complications in the form of herpetic damage to internal organs (most often the liver), herpetic gastroenterocolitis (manifested by vomiting, diarrhea), herpetic encephalitis (virus damage to brain cells). All these complications pose a serious danger to the child’s health and should be treated only in specialized clinics.

Congenital herpes in children

Congenital herpes poses a particular danger to children. This disease develops due to the virus entering the fetus during pregnancy or childbirth. The most serious complications are observed if the child’s mother became infected with the herpes virus during pregnancy; it is less dangerous to develop than an exacerbation of a pre-existing infection. The time of exacerbation of infection is also important: the most dangerous period in terms of transmission of infection to a child is the period preceding childbirth. In some cases, a viral infection in the mother may be asymptomatic.

The first symptoms of the disease can appear in newborns as early as 48 hours after birth, this is especially true for children whose infection occurred on early stages pregnancy. A later onset of the disease (a month after birth) is associated with infection of the child during childbirth.

Symptoms of herpes infection depend on the form of the disease and timing of infection. If infection occurs during childbirth, then the manifestations of the disease are reduced to the appearance of a vesicular rash on the skin, mucous membranes, palms and soles. When a child is infected during fetal development, the symptoms are associated with impaired development of various organs: the nervous system, liver, heart, pancreas. Symptoms of congenital herpes are as follows:

1. Jaundice. Jaundice has a wave-like character and begins on the 3-4th day. The stool is colored at the beginning of the disease, then loses color and becomes colorless. The urine is light at first and then darkens.
2. Damage to the central nervous system manifests itself in the form of convulsions, increased excitability, children refuse to eat, they are drowsy, and the process of thermoregulation is disrupted.
3. Generalization of the process. The child’s condition deteriorates sharply, they are lethargic, adynamic, refuse to eat, and herpetic pneumonia develops.

It is very important to start treatment on time, since in the absence of medical care for such children, the likelihood of fatal outcome, in some cases, mortality can reach 90%.

Treatment of herpes in children

To treat herpes infection, antiviral drugs, immunostimulants, and interferons are used.

Antiviral drug Acyclovir is used for herpes infections. This drug can be used either as intravenous injections, and in the form of tablets. The method of administration of the drug depends on the severity of the disease and its form. The drug is administered intravenously at a dosage of 30-60 mg/kg of the child’s body weight, orally – 90 mg/kg. Taking the drug should be divided into 3-4 parts. Also this drug can be used externally as an ointment. It must be applied to the affected areas of the skin and mucous membranes 4-5 times a day.

Immunostimulating drugs contribute to the fact that the child’s body fights the virus more effectively and does not allow the virus to infect new areas of mucous membranes and internal organs. For treatment, you can use immunostimulating drugs such as Immunal, Groprinosin, Arpetol.

Interferons contribute to the destruction of viruses and do not allow them to multiply uncontrollably. They can be used both in tablet form and in the form of suppositories. Suppositories are inserted into the child's anus 2 times a day for 5 days, the course is repeated 2-3 times with a break of 5 days.

In addition to herpetic lesions of the mucous membranes, the herpes virus (usually the herpes zoster type of virus) can also infect the skin. In this case, diseases such as chicken pox and herpes zoster.

Prevention of herpes in children

To prevent herpes, you must follow the rules of personal hygiene and not use other people's personal belongings, and avoid close contact with people with herpes. To strengthen the child’s immune system, proper nutrition, vitamin therapy in the autumn-spring period, and the use of immunostimulating drugs in preventive doses in the winter are necessary. You can also use the method of autohemotherapy, when the child’s blood from a vein is injected into the gluteal muscle according to a special scheme.

Remember! Herpes cannot be cured, it can only be healed.

Pediatrician Litashov M.V.

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

Doctors distinguish eight types of herpes. The last two groups are considered extremely rare, leading to severe forms diseases affecting external and internal organs.

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

The first type of virus, or herpes simplex HSV-1, is localized around the lips.
The second type of virus, human herpes simplex, occurs on the genitals.
Virus of the third type. This includes herpes zoster and varicella, or chickenpox.
Epstein-Barr virus belongs to the 4th type of human herpes.
Type five – Cytomegalovirus infection.
The sixth type is the herpes virus, disease-causing Roseola.
Herpes virus type 7, or β-herpesvirus, has several definitions, particularly HHV7 and HHV7.
The associated Kaposi's sarcoma virus belongs to the 8th type of human herpes.

Having once penetrated the body, herpes in children remains in a latent-persistent state throughout life.

Causes

The causative agent of herpes simplex, the Herpes Simplex virus, has many clinical manifestations. Characteristic blistering rashes appear on skin and mucous membrane.

Herpes infection HSV-1 transmitted through household, airborne or oral routes during the postnatal period. Transmission of the virus to the fetus during pregnancy occurs through the placenta.
Infection with the second type of herpes possibly from mother to child during childbirth. Children suffer from the disease more severely than adults, and it is more difficult to treat a child.
Chicken pox, herpes type 3, V childhood easily tolerated. Everyone knows that after having chickenpox, a person develops immunity. But secondary infection with this type of virus is possible, and it leads to the occurrence of shingles.
Herpes viruses from 4th to 7th type provoke the occurrence infectious mononucleosis and lymphocytosis. Peripheral blood tests showed 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.
Herpes type 6 in children is the most common. It appears as pink spots with papular rashes, and is called roseola infantile. The risk category includes children under 2 years of age. TO characteristic symptoms diseases 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. Duration skin rashes varies from several hours to several days. The rashes are localized on the body in the area of the sacrum, neck, face and limbs.

Herpes infection in children under one year of age is very severe. Treatment is complex, associated with severe forms of damage to 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 where blisters form. Soon the blisters burst with the formation of ulcers and wounds covered with crusts.

The oral mucosa may also become ulcerated. Herpes in a child's mouth spreads along the inner surface of the cheeks, gums, tongue and throat. The gums are hyperemic and bleeding. There is an increase in lymph nodes that respond to palpation with pain.

Herpes ulcers in the throat are small, painful, the tonsils are covered with a gray coating. The treatment is long-term, lasting at least two weeks.

There are four stages of the disease:

Primary infection.
Latent period.
Secondary infection.
Possible complications.

On the 12th day, during 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 the surrounding skin. Healed blisters are not dangerous. In the affected area, the lymph nodes are enlarged and painful to the touch. Body temperature is increased. There are attacks of headache. General state, as with ARVI with sore throat.

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

At the end of the latent period, the virus multiplies latently and the symptoms of the disease return. The onset of secondary infection is unpredictable, but, as a rule, secondary infection appears within a year after the initial infection by the virus.

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

Treatment

Interferon and antiviral drugs are used in therapy against herpes infection. Treatment of herpes in children begins when the first signs of the disease appear. In an advanced state, the risk of the disease progressing to chronic form 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 external manifestations of the virus on the body or lip with ointments. As drugs that relieve itching and painful sensations, use tablets, as well as antipyretics at high temperatures.

It is preferable to treat a child in the acute stage of herpes antiviral drug Acyclovir, 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 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 source of infection with application up to 5 times a day to the affected areas.

The introduction of immunostimulating drugs into therapy promotes effective fight with a virus in a child's body.

Immunostimulants are introduced into treatment:

Immunal;
Groprisin;
Arpetol.

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

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

Herpes type 2 in a child

The occurrence of genital herpes in a child is not a common occurrence. Herpes on the genitals in teenage children can occur after the first sexual experience. IN younger age Children are infected mainly from their parents.

Herpes virus type 2 affects the genitals. In girls, you can find manifestations of herpes on the labia minora or majora, in boys - in the scrotum area.

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

Herpes type 2 recurs much more often than simple herpes. 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 appropriate treatment.

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

The first stage is aimed at stopping 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 with tablets.

The second stage is devoted to reproducing the original number of lactobacilli, whose vital functions were suppressed by Gardnerella during the period of illness. At this stage, they prefer to treat with probiotics:

Bifiform;
Lactobacterin;
Linux;
Bifidumbacterin.

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

With frequent relapses, consultation with an immunologist is necessary. Treatment is prescribed with the aim of strengthening the child’s immune system, since the herpes virus that has entered the body remains with the person forever, no matter what type it is.

Prevention

Preventive measures to prevent relapses 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 after 36 weeks, treatment is not prescribed, the only preventative measure is a caesarean section.

In conclusion, it should be noted that in order to avoid relapse, attention should be paid to the child’s diet and lifestyle. Food should be fortified, and the child should spend a lot of time in the fresh air.

If you experience cold symptoms, you should take emergency measures to eliminate them, since any disease can contribute to the return of the infection.

Useful video about herpes in children

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