Cold Sores

Question 1

Referral signs and symptoms

Answer 1

• Less than 12 years old
• Immunocompromised (disease, drugs)
• Fever, swollen glands, other systemic symptoms
• Lesion duration > 14 days
• Lesion on or around nose
• More than 6 episodes per year
• Lesion does not completely heal between episodes

Question 2

Typical symptoms of cold sores

Answer 2

Single lesion with multiple vesicles on border of lip, around nostril; lesion is itchy, painful, leaks clear sticky fluid, forms crusts

Question 4

Acyclovir application

Answer 4

5% Cream (2g): Apply 5 times daily for 4 days. (5 to 10 days for the first sign)