What do finger herpes look like?

Approximately 2–20 days after initial exposure to the herpes simplex virus, the infected area develops burning, tingling, and pain. Over the next week or 2, the finger becomes red and swollen. Small (1–3 mm) fluid-filled blisters develop, often clustered together on a bright red base.

Can herpes happen on fingers?

Herpetic whitlow is a viral condition where small blisters form on the fingers and the fleshy area around the fingertips. These sores or blisters are often painful and develop after direct contact with a contagious sore. The herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes this condition. There are two types of HSV.

How common is herpes on finger?

A whitlow is an infection of the fingertip, and there are several types; herpetic whitlow strikes about 2.5 per 100,000 people each year. The infection poses a serious risk.

What does a whitlow look like on your finger?

Check if you have herpetic whitlow Symptoms of herpetic whitlow include: swelling and pain in your finger. blisters or sores on your finger. skin becoming red or darker than your usual skin tone.

How do you get an infection out of your finger?

Wash the finger with clean water two times a day. Do not use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol. Next, cover the area with a thin layer of antiseptic ointment and a bandage. Take the antibiotics as prescribed.

Can you get herpes by touching hands?

Herpes is spread from skin-to-skin contact with infected areas, often during vaginal sex, oral sex, anal sex, and kissing. Touching open sores with your hands can spread the sores from one part of your body to another if you don’t wash your hands immediately after.

How do you get rid of an infection in your finger?

You can take care of an infected finger by following these instructions from the doctor:

Wash the finger with clean water two times a day.
Next, cover the area with a thin layer of antiseptic ointment and a bandage.
Take the antibiotics as prescribed.
Take over the counter painkillers if required.

What can be mistaken for whitlow?

Herpetic whitlow is most commonly mistaken for paronychia (a localized bacterial abscess in the nail fold) or bacterial felon (digital pulp abscess).

How serious is a finger infection?

Finger Infection Overview Infection can range from mild to potentially serious. Often, these infections start out small and are relatively easy to treat. Failure to properly treat these infections can result in permanent disability or loss of the finger.