Herpes outbreaks most commonly occur on the genitals or on the mouth, caused by an infection with a virus known as herpes simplex. However, some forms of herpes occur on other areas of the body. One example is the virus herpes gladiatorum, which is often called "wrestler's herpes" because the sport involves close physical contact.
Herpes Outbreaks
Herpes gladiatorum blisters generally show up in clusters on the face, trunk or extremities. The lesions may or may not cause pain, and they may be preceded by symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat and tingling skin, according to the Minnesota Department of Health. Outbreaks generally last a week to 10 days but may be recurrent, brought about through factors such as sun exposure and stress. Outbreaks are less likely to be contagious after they subside.
Preventive Measures for Wrestlers
If you're a wrestler, you can reduce your risk of contracting or transmitting herpes gladiatorum by maintaining good hygiene. Immediately after you practice, shower in the locker room with warm water and your own liquid soap. Dry off using your own towel and use hot water, detergent and bleach to wash your towel after every use. Follow up by using the high heat setting to dry your towel. Also keep your gear and equipment clean. Change your competition and practice gear after every use and use your liquid shower soap to clean off your headgear every day. Additionally, clean off the soles of your shoes with a towel soaked in disinfectant before you step onto the wrestling mat. Finally, keep your hands clean by scrubbing frequently and thoroughly, particularly after practice. Spend at least 15 seconds lathering with soap and water and maintain cleanliness with hand sanitizer as long as your hands aren't visibly dirty. Avoid touching your face with your hands, avoid picking skin sores and tell your coach as soon as possible if you notice any skin lesions.
Facility Hygiene
Those who maintain your wrestling facilities should do their part to reduce the risk of players spreading herpes gladiatorum by using a bleach or an EPA-approved disinfectant to wash wrestling mats after every practice or competition. They should also use the same product to clean locker rooms and shower areas and launder cleaning cloths or mops with hot water and laundry detergent.
Assessment and Treatment
Consult your doctor as soon as possible if you believe you have herpes. Your doctor will be more likely to properly diagnose an outbreak if it is still present. Additionally, this outbreak and future outbreaks of herpes will likely be less severe if your doctor has a chance to treat you the first time around. If your doctor diagnoses you with herpes gladiatorum, you shouldn't attend wrestling practices or participate in competitions until the lesions heal.
