Chronic ulcers, which are sometimes very difficult to heal, may also develop on the cornea. Spreading the infection to another person is unlikely. In people with poor immunity, the herpes simplex virus may infect other parts of the eye or body, such as the retina or brain, but this occurs infrequently. It is important to remember that herpes simplex eye disease is not usually caused by HSV type II, the sexually transmitted herpes. While possible, sexual transmission of herpes eye disease is extremely rare.
Treatment depends on the extent of the disease.
Antiviral eye medications are commonly used and may need to be applied as frequently as one drop per hour. At times it may be necessary to scrape the surface of the cornea, to patch the eye, or to use a variety of medications. In cases of severe scarring and vision loss, a corneal transplant may be required. It is very important to consult an ophthalmologist before beginning any treatment since some medications may actually make the disease worse. Eye disease can occur at any age.