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The herpes simplex virus HSV can cause blisters and sores almost anywhere on the skin. These sores usually occur either around the mouth and nose, or on the genitals and buttocks. HSV infections can be very annoying because they can periodically reappear. The sores may be painful and unsightly. For chronically ill people and newborn babies, the viral infection can be serious, but rarely fatal. The Type 1 virus causes cold sores.
When popped, the sores will crust over. Although many people with the herpes virus never experience noticeable symptoms, the most common symptoms include:. A rash is an inflammation of the skin caused by a number of factors ranging from skin irritants to sickness. Rashes are commonly identified by symptoms including:.
Herpes simplex is a common viral infection. Most cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 HSV Other names for cold sores caused by HSV-1 are:. A closely related herpes simplex virus, HSV-2, causes most cases of genital herpes. Herpes simplex.