There are two types of herpes viruses, type 1 and type 2. Although type 1 is usually associated with lesions on the face and the central nervous systems, and type 2 is associated with genital infection, each can cause disease anywhere in the body. The virus causes an initial infection after exposure and then lies dormant until it reactivates. There is no cure for herpes infections, but antiviral drugs can suppress reactivation.
Mucocutaneous Infections
According to the Merck Manuals, these are the most common diseases caused by the herpes virus. These lesions can appear anywhere on the skin, but more commonly around the lips, mouth and eyes. The other common location is on the genitals. The infection starts with a tingling or burning sensation followed by the appearance of clusters of vesicles that then rupture and dry up after a few days. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease, usually caused by type 2 herpes. These lesions appear on the prepuce, vagina and other genital areas. Another mucocutaneous infection is herpetic stomatitis. This is a common infection in children, causing vesicles in the mouth and throat that make it difficult to drink fluids, which can lead to dehydration.
Central Nervous System Infection
The herpes virus can cause encephalitis, or an inflammation of the brain, and meningitis, an inflammation of the meninges, the tissue covering the brain and the spinal cord. Symptoms of meningitis and encephalitis include headache, neck stiffness, fever, photophobia or aversion to bright lights, changes in mental status like somnolence and listlessness, and seizures. Newborn can contract herpes via exposure to vaginal secretions that carry the virus. Neonatal herpes encephalitis presents with irritability and seizures, and can cause significant long-term health disabilities and death.
Eye Infections
The herpes virus can cause an infection within the eye, a condition called herpes keratitis. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the symptoms of herpes keratitis include pain, blurry vision, redness of the affected eye, tearing and light sensitivity. The virus can also affect the eyelid, the conjunctiva or the white part of the eye, and the cornea. Without treatment, herpes keratitis can lead to permanent vision loss. Mild infection can be treated with antiviral drops and oral medicine. Severe infection may require surgical intervention.
