Have I given my child herpes

[Sstuart]

I have had genital herpes for over a decade. In the last month, my 5 year old son has irritated spots on his penis and scrotum one of which turned into a scab. Have I somehow given him herpes from taking care of him? I'm terrified! Could it be possible he has irritation from playing with himself? From playing out in the heat? It's been 90 degrees here regularly this summer. What else could this be? So so worried.

[auntiejessi]

I'm sorry you even spend any time worrying about this, because it's not necessary.

The absolute only way you'll ever give your child herpes is if you are having inappropriate sexual contact with him. Herpes is not spread by normal household contact, normal child care, etc. You would have to have direct unclothed, skin to skin, genital to genital with someone to transmit it, and I'm assuming you haven't done that with your child.

That said, you should take your son to the doctor. He could have a fungal infection like jock itch or yeast, and need treatment. Don't even tell the doctor you have herpes - it's unnecessary.

Good luck, and I hope he heals quickly.

You should read the Herpes Handbook at https://westoverheights.com/herpes/the-updated-herpes-handbook/ It's written by Terri Warren, one of the world's leading experts in herpes, and it's free. This should help with your peace of mind.

[Sstuart]

Thank you for responding. Its agonizing to worry about it. It's the first thing that comes to mind when you see this with your kids.  Your answer gives me some comfort.  I have an appointment scheduled. This is my first child and I have no experience with what else this could be.

[auntiejessi]

Has he seen the doctor yet? It could be a fungal infection, like yeast. It could be dermatitis, eczema, or something along those lines. Herpes wouldn't even make my list unless you suspect he's been sexually abused.