A patient complains of painful ulcerations around one side of his mouth. You suspect oral herpesvirus infection. Which of the following is the best advice for this patient?

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Patients with suspected oral herpes simplex virus infection should be counseled to practice excellent hand hygiene to prevent spread to others. They should also be aware of the risk of autoinoculation to the eye, which could result in keratitis, acute retinal necrosis, and permanent blindness. While most oral herpes lesions last for between 10 to 14 days, many patients shed the virus subclinically (without overt symptoms). It is thought that this may be one of the primary mechanisms of HSV-1 spread. Recurrence may be common, especially in immunocompromised individuals. There is no cure for herpesvirus, only suppression and management of symptoms.

A Patient Complains of Painful Ulcerations Around One Side of His