Viral Herpes Pharyngitis in Infants
Viral herpes pharyngitis, also known as herpangina, is a common childhood illness caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It is characterized by fever, sore throat, and small, painful ulcers on the back of the throat.
Symptoms of Viral Herpes Pharyngitis in Infants
The symptoms of viral herpes pharyngitis in infants typically appear 2-3 days after exposure to the virus. These symptoms can include:
Fever
Sore throat
Small, painful ulcers on the back of the throat
Difficulty swallowing
Drooling
Irritability
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Causes of Viral Herpes Pharyngitis in Infants
Viral herpes pharyngitis is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV is a common virus that can cause a variety of infections, including cold sores, genital herpes, and chickenpox. HSV is spread through contact with infected saliva or skin lesions. Infants can become infected with HSV from their mothers during childbirth or from contact with other infected individuals.
Diagnosis of Viral Herpes Pharyngitis in Infants
Viral herpes pharyngitis is typically diagnosed based on the symptoms and a physical examination of the throat. In some cases, a throat swab may be collected to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of Viral Herpes Pharyngitis in Infants
There is no specific treatment for viral herpes pharyngitis. Treatment is supportive and aims to relieve symptoms. This may include:
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and pain
Soft, cool foods and drinks to soothe the throat
Salt water gargles to help reduce inflammation
Rest
Prevention of Viral Herpes Pharyngitis in Infants
There is no vaccine to prevent viral herpes pharyngitis. However, there are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of infection, such as:
Avoiding contact with people who have cold sores or other HSV infections
Washing hands frequently
Not sharing food or drinks with others
Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that may be contaminated with HSV
Complications of Viral Herpes Pharyngitis in Infants
Viral herpes pharyngitis is usually a mild illness, but it can sometimes lead to complications, such as:
Dehydration
Bacterial infections
Meningitis
Encephalitis
Outlook for Viral Herpes Pharyngitis in Infants
Most infants with viral herpes pharyngitis recover fully within 7-10 days. However, some infants may experience recurrent infections.
When to Seek Medical Care
Parents should seek medical care for their infant if they have any of the following symptoms:
Fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit
Difficulty breathing
Excessive drooling
Refusal to eat or drink
Irritability or lethargy
Rash or blisters on the skin
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