[Clinical aspects and therapy of Herpes simplex and Varicella-Zoster virus infections in practice]

Abstract

Primary infections with herpes simplex virus are usually localized, whereas those with varicella-zoster virus always disseminate. Both viruses persist within the host and may cause recurrent infections. Newborns and immunocompromised individuals have a risk for severe disease. Acyclovir is the drug of choice for complications or in immunodeficiency.