Treatment for Herpes Gladiatorum

Herpes gladiatorum is a skin infection caused by the herpes simplex type 1 virus. The condition is contracted by skin to skin contact with an infected person and is of particular concern to student athletes such as wrestlers because of their intense contact. Unlike oral herpes which causes cold sores, herpes gladiatorum can cause lesions around the face and eyes which could result in even more serious eye infections.

Identification

• Blister-like lesions may appear within a week after contact with a carrier, but could take longer. Athletes should immediately report any outbreak to their coach so that preventative steps can be take to prevent the spread of the infection to other athletes, including teams the athlete has recently competed against.

Prevention/Solution

• Have the lesions checked by a qualified trainer or physician for proper diagnosis. If the lesions appear to be herpes gladiatorum the athlete such remove himself from practice and competition until the outbreak has cleared and he is released to compete by a physician.

Significance

• Refrain from picking at the sores as the pus or drainage from the lesion is highly contagious.

Anti-Virals

• The University of Michigan Health System suggests a prescription anti-viral such as acyclovir may help with the healing process.

Warning

• There is currently no cure for herpes gladiatorum. There is no vaccine that can protect against herpes infection. The best course of action is vigilant, preventative hygiene