A Patient Who Has Had Lesions for Several Days Is

A patient who has had lesions for several days is diagnosed with primary herpes labialis and asks about using a topical medication. What will the provider tell this patient?

A) Oral antivirals are necessary to treat this type of herpes.
B) Preparations containing salicylic acid are most helpful.
C) Topical medications can have an impact on pain and discomfort.
D) Topical medications will significantly shorten the healing time.