I have HSV -2 herpetic whitlow ( both thumbs )... due to auto inoculation ( i also have genital HSV2).. i have been informed of the risk of viral shedding for genital herpes, but i cant seem to find a straight answer about asymptomatic viral shedding from my thumbs. I am concerned about transmission to others via handshakes, hand holding, etc Thank You for your time
Hi! I appreciate your concern. Your need to take antiviral medicine called acyclovir (e.g. Viral) to be prescribed by your doctor in the first few days after your symptoms develop for it to be effective. Herpetic whit low spreads by skin-to-skin contact with someone who has HSV and a cold sore. You can reduce your chances of getting herpetic whit low by not exposing yourself to HSV. This means not having skin-to-skin contact with people who have cold sores, genital herpes or other herpes simplex infections.