If keratitis or ulcer is present, antiviral medication is usually prescribed. Once infected the host will always have the virus. Some patients may also suffer from an iritis. In addition, a patient may suffer from a secondary bacterial infection as a result of the keratitis. Re-infection of the virus is possible.
Recurrence rates tend to higher in fall and winter months.
Environmental factors may also have an effect on rates. Sunlight, ultraviolet light, and extreme cold or heat may trigger a recurrence.