They rupture, leaving extremely painful shallow ulcers. Healing time is approximately 12 days. Potential Complications Recurrent painful attacks, chronic pain. If transmission occurs to an infant at delivery, severe neurological damage or death may occur. Treatment Topical powder or gel is helpful.
Antiviral drugs are effective if taken early in an attack or continuously in a preventive regimen.
Prevention Barrier methods are only partially protective. Lesions may not be present in areas not covered. Only total absence of touching of infected tissue will avoid transmission.