For parents, it can be unsettling to see blisters or sores on their child's skin or in their mouth. While several cases are minor and temporary, some may indicate a viral infection that needs attention. Herpes is a common name that often gets mixed up with another viral illness frequently seen in children, which is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). How serious is it? How can you distinguish between herpes and HFMD?
Herpes
The term "herpes" usually refers to the infection caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), which has two main types:
- HSV type 1 (HSV-1): is the most common type and typically causes oral herpes, also known as "cold sores" or "fever blisters" that appear around the mouth and lips. This type is often transmitted through direct contact with an infected person's saliva or secretions; for example, children can get it from kissing or sharing personal items.
- HSV type 2 (HSV-2): is primarily associated with genital herpes and is transmitted through sexual contact; however, in rare cases, it can be transmitted to newborns during birth if the mother has an active genital herpes infection.
Herpes Symptoms in Children
Herpes symptoms vary depending on the type of virus, location of infection, and child's age. Common symptoms for HSV-1 include:
- Painful, small, fluid-filled blisters around the mouth and lips.
- An itchy, prickly, or burning sensation before the blisters appear.
- Mild fever and swelling of the lymph nodes in some cases.
- Pain when swallowing.
- In rare cases, HSV infection leads to more severe complications, such as encephalitis (brain infection) or keratitis (eye infection), especially in newborns or those with a weakened immune system.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
HFMD is another common viral infection in children, particularly infants and toddlers under ten years old; it is typically caused by a strain of the Coxsackie viruses. The disease spreads easily through direct contact with nasal and throat secretions, saliva, stool, or fluid from blisters. HFMD Symptoms
- Fever.
- Poor appetite.
- General feeling of being unwell (malaise).
- Small red blisters that turn into painful sores in the mouth (usually on the tongue, gums, and inner cheeks.
- A non-itchy skin rash of flat or slightly raised red blisters on the hands and feet, and sometimes, even the genitals and buttocks.
Distinguishing Herpes from Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease.
While both are characterized by the appearance of blisters, there are some key differences that help distinguish between herpes and Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease.
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Characteristics
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Herpes (typically HSV-1)
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Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
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Location of Blisters
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Often around the mouth and lips, but may appear in other areas.
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In the mouth (tongue, gums, inner cheeks), and on the hands and feet.
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Shape of Blisters
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A cluster of small, fluid-filled blisters.
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Small red blisters that develop into sores in the mouth, and a rash on the limbs.
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Pain
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Very painful.
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Painful sores in the mouth, and typically a non-itchy rash on the limbs.
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Fever
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May be present, but can be sometimes so mild that it is unnoticeable.
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Common in the early stages.
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Most affected Age
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Can affect children of any age.
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Most common among infants and children under ten years old.
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While Herpes may seem frightening, most cases in children are localized and mild; however, it is essential to distinguish it from other viral illnesses, such as Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease. Paying attention to the symptoms and consulting a physician when needed ensure receiving proper care and avoid potential complications.
References
mayoclinic.org, Cold Sore
mayoclinic.org, Hand-foot-and-mouth disease
healthychildren.org
my.clevelandclinic.org
my.clevelandclinic.org, Herpangina