TheOneInFour

Sorry to hear you're having this happen, regardless of what it is. I hate to say this, but from the way you describe it, it's possible it is herpes. I wouldn't rule it out just yet. Having herpes on the hands is called a "herpetic whitlow." It's not as common but definitely not unheard of.

Did you have any other symptoms when/before you had the sores? Like tingling, itching, swelling, etc.? I ask because if you are aware of when it's coming on, you will stand a better chance of not passing it on (assuming it's contagious, herpes or not).

If you get any other sores on your hands (same or different place), I'd suggest you get to a doctor immediately to get a swab culture done on it. Unfortunately, if you already know you have herpes elsewhere, a blood test won't tell you anything you don't already know.

As far as your job is concerned, maybe you could tell people you're wearing gloves because you've been getting a skin reaction to the chemicals (rash, whatever). It's a believable reason, and until you know for sure what it is, for all you know that could be the truth.

I'm not sure what to say about your child, other than suggesting you try not to convey the generalised message that touching is bad or dangerous. It might help you to remember two things, to put it all into perspective: (1) Most of the population (50-80%) has HSV-1, which they catch in early childhood from relatives and friends, and (2) Herpes cannot penetrate skin unless there's a break in it somehow (cut, scratch, abrasion, etc.), so simple contact won't give it to him on its own.

Good luck! Keep us posted how you make out with this and if you ever manage to get it diagnosed.

TheOneInFour