Though more common near the lips, grouped blisters (vesicles) can occur anywhere in herpes infections. When the herpes virus infects a finger, it is known as a herpetic whitlow. With a herpes virus skin infection, such as this one involving the leg, some blisters (vesicles) can have pus. Herpes virus infections can occur virtually anywhere on the body. The small blisters (vesicles) of herpes virus infections often have surrounding redness. Erosions and blood-filled blisters and crusts are typical with primary herpes simplex infection as with this child.
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Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)  A parent's guide to condition and treatment information

Picture of Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Though more common near the lips, grouped blisters (vesicles) can occur anywhere in herpes infections. Divider line
Though more common near the lips, grouped blisters (vesicles) can occur anywhere in herpes infections.
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Self-Care Guidelines
  • Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain. Relief of pain, so that eating and sleeping are possible, is most important.
  • The child should be encouraged to drink as much fluid as possible to avoid dehydration.
  • Avoid contact with other children, especially newborns and those with eczema or a weak immune system, until healed.
When to Seek Medical Care
Although those with mild recurrent herpes do not usually need any medical care, see your child's doctor if you think he/she has primary herpes.
Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008