What Causes Outbreaks On Different Parts Of Body With History Of HSV-1 Infection In Childhood?

Posted on Sun, 15 Mar 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 15 Mar 2015 Answered on

Thu, 2 Apr 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I've had hsv-1 since I was a child. I am now 40. I had an outbreak on my face this past week. I appear to have had an outbreak on my wrist, as well. I've never had an outbreak on my wrist. Should I be concerned about hsv-2 because of the new outbreak site?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (41 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
yoi should not

Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome to hcm.
There is no need to be worried since this is hsv 1 almost for sure. It isn't uncommon to see outbreaks in different part of body and there is no rule,it may occur anywhere and whenever. Hsv type 2 usually has first outbreak few days or weeks after intercourse and occurs in genital area. If you want to be sure you can do blood test but I don't think this is necessary.Wish you good health. Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (2 hours later)

How about if it was oral sex and not intercourse?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (22 hours later)

Brief Answer:
No matter

Detailed Answer:
Hi.
HSV 2 is genital virus and it has no recpetors for skin on other parts of body. so this on your hand is very probably hsv type 1,and less possible some other viral infection.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T