Herpetic whitlow finger is a contagious infection of the finger that is regarded to be severely painful. Caused by the virus – herpes simplex, herpetic whitlow can easily spread by direct physical contact, like any other viral infection. Finger herpes affects people of all age groups and perhaps people from all backgrounds. This is especially common among children and medical professionals. Children often contract the disease when they have oral herpes of the lips or mouth, and have a habit to suck their fingers or thumb. Similarly, health care providers, medical and dental workers contract this infection when they come into direct contact with lesions of a patient who has the infection of herpes. In both these conditions, the HSV-1 virus is the cause of the infection. HSV-2 virus is less common and is usually contracted by adults who come into direct physical contact with infected genitals.

Herpetic whitlow usually affects the thumb and the forefinger. Approximately 2-20 days after the virus infects a finger, the affected area shows signs of infection. These signs are in the form of redness, swelling and burning sensation accompanied with extreme pain. Subsequently, this is followed by development of blisters and ulcers in the region. There may be other common symptoms, too, which may include fever and swollen lymph nodes.

With herpetic whitlow there is no formal treatment and medication involved unless it develops into a more complicated situation. Otherwise, this finger infection heals on its own over a period of time. However, following certain self-care guidelines is inevitable. People with this infection can take pain relievers like ibuprofen and apply cold compresses or ice packs on the infected area to help reduce the pain associated with infection. Because this infection is highly contagious, it is necessary for the infected person to observe care to avoid spreading the virus. Simple things like not sharing towels and other personal care products, covering the infected area with a bandage or wearing gloves if you are a provider of health care can prevent the spread of the infection. » Read more: Self Care Goes A Long Way in Preventing Herpetic Whitlow