Is herpes gladiatorum an STD?

Herpes gladiatorum (“mat herpes”) is a skin infection caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), the same virus that causes cold sores on the lips. HSV-1 infections are very common. In the United States, 30% to 90% of people are exposed to herpes by adulthood, although many people never develop symptoms.

What does herpes gladiatorum look like?

Herpes gladiatorum is characterized by a rash with clusters of sometimes painful fluid-filled blisters, often on the neck, chest, face, stomach, and legs. The infection is often accompanied by lymphadenopathy (enlargement of the lymph nodes), fever, sore throat, and headache.

How do you get rid of herpes gladiatorum fast?

Herpes gladiatorum can be successfully treated with systemic antiviral medications, either valacyclovir or acyclovir. In primary infections, the recommended dosing includes valacyclovir 1 mg taken daily for 10–14 days, or acyclovir 200–400 mg taken five times daily for 10–14 days.

Can U Get herpes gladiatorum?

Once infected with the virus, a person is infected for life. People with Herpes gladiatorum can go long periods of time during which the virus is inactive and cannot be spread to others. However, the virus can reactivate at any time and be transmitted to others, even if there are no symptoms.

How is herpes gladiatorum diagnosed?

To tell whether a person has herpes gladiatorum, a doctor first visually examines any blisters or sores. This may be all that is necessary. In some cases, they may also order a blood test. A person carrying the virus has specific antibodies in their blood that can indicate the presence of HSV-1.

What triggers herpes gladiatorum?

People can get herpes gladiatorum by touching the blisters or sores on an infected person. People can also get herpes gladiatorum by touching items used by an infected person, such as sporting gear, towels, bar soap, cell phones, or utensils.

Is herpes gladiatorum always contagious?

An HSV-1 infection, such as herpes gladiatorum, stays in the body for life, and the virus is always transmissible. Symptoms appear as the virus periodically reactivates.

Is Herpes gladiatorum lifelong?

There is no cure for herpes gladiatorum. Once you have the virus, you will have it for life. Antiviral medications may be given to help reduce symptoms, especially during the first time you have mat herpes, and decrease the number of times a person has an episode.