This is my first OB in over a year. I usually sleep in the nude or in undergarments. Could this risk passing something on to my son if he gets in the bed behind me? I've always practiced great hand washing to prevent spreading it, but I've never thought about this. He likes to take my spot as soon as I get out of bed and he did it this morning. Could there be something there that can infect him? Please answer ASAP!! Thanks in advance for all responses!!

Hi Normorcrazy,

If your OBs might be exposed to the sheets, I think I would err on the side of caution if I was in your position. I'm sure it's fine if you just wear underwear that would cover any OBs. If any body fluids might leak out onto the sheets (which might contain the virus) then underwear should keep the virus from landing on the sheets. As long as there's a barrier between your OB lesions and the sheets (or you son), I would think he'd be fine.

The only concern I'd have is if fluid from the OB blister was to leak through your underwear. If that ever happens, you might try wearing a pantyliner on the inside of your underwear next to the OB site during OBs, or wear a second pair of underwear over the first, which would provide a more secure barrier.

TheOneInFour

Thank you! The bumps just showed up last night, so I haven't had any leaking of fluid yet, but I will definitely keep that in mind!!

I also had another question for you if you don't mind answering. How common is herpes encephalitis? Is it something we should be concerned with or does it only happen in certain cases and if so, what types of cases?

I must say...you are the greatest source to turn to on this site. I appreciate the help you give to everyone! Thanks and keep up the great work http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

Thanks for the compliment! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif But please remember that I'm not a doctor or health professional. Most of my information comes from searching the Internet combined with some common sense and experience, and sometimes books. If you really need a reliable answer, check out Dr. H at herpes.org (in this board's Resource Links).

One site I found about herpes-caused encephalitis (a neurology site) claims there are 2000 cases in the US each year (which doesn't sound like a lot to me, but tell that to the 2000 maybe LOL). It's most common in those under 20 and over 40 in age, and very dangerous if left untreated (with antiviral drugs). It is unfortunately very difficult to get specific information out of CDC's website about herpes so I didn't get much that was helpful there.

I don't hear about encephalitis caused by herpes very often and have yet to see a direct post about someone who has had it (that I can remember), so I suspect it's not very common. Again, check with Dr. H if you're worried as he will have more specific information about it, now it's contracted and how to avoid it.

Hope that helps! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

TheOneInFour