Will any illness trigger my HSV-1 outbreak after 60?

Question

Hi doctor,

I was diagnosed with HSV-1 four months back, HSV IgG was positive, and IgM was negative. I am a healthy person, and if I keep myself away from HIV, will I still have HSV outbreaks after 60 years of age? HIV is the only known immunocompromised state.

Will a cold, flu, thyroid, diabetes, or any other general illness trigger HSV outbreak? Instead of Acyclovir 200 mg for five days, can I take a single dose of Famciclovir 1200 mg, when I get a sore? Will HSV affect my daily lifestyle? I am going to get married, so please help me.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

If you are not immunosuppressed, then HSV (herpes simplex virus) outbreaks will not increase after 60 years or later. General ill health can cause an outbreak, but thyroid disorders, diabetes, flu, and cold will not cause an outbreak. Sore outbreaks can occur at any time for no reason.

For mild disease, there is no need for oral antivirals. Yes, you can take Famciclovir instead of Acyclovir. HSV will not have any effect on your regular and married life.

Seventy percent of normal individuals have an asymptomatic HSV-1 infection. So, there is no need to worry.

I hope this has helped you.

Please feel free to reach me again, in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed the attached photographs (attachment removed to protect patient identity). The oral cavity lesion seems to be a cheek bite, while the other looks like an insect bite reaction. Avoid HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection, drugs like steroids, and others that can lower immunity.

To maintain health, eat a balanced diet and avoid extramarital sex; no need to go for lifestyle changes. Yes, you can take Famciclovir 1500 mg as a single dose at the time of the outbreak of herpes. It will not be harmful to you.

I hope this has helped you.

Please feel free to contact me again in case you have any further queries.

Thank you.