Herpes in the Workplace: Should You Stay Home During an Outbreak?

Herpes in the Workplace: Should You Stay Home During an Outbreak?

A herpes outbreak is often associated with discomfort, soreness and uncertainty – especially if it occurs in the middle of a busy workweek. Many people ask themselves: “Should I go to work with an active outbreak?” The short answer is: As a general rule – yes. Herpes is not dangerous and is not transmitted through casual contact.

But there are situations where it makes sense to consider a day off or take extra precautions. Here's an overview of when you can safely go to work – and when it might be best to stay home.

 

Herpes is not transmitted through casual contact.

Herpes – both HSV-1 (typically cold sores on the lips or around the mouth) and HSV-2 (genital herpes) – is spread through close skin contact or mucous membranes. You cannot infect colleagues by:

• Shake hands
• Use keypad or door handle
• Talk together or be in the same room
• Sit at the same table

Therefore, there is no reason to stay home from work unless the outbreak is very bothersome or affects your general condition.

When might it make sense to stay home?

Consider a day off if:

• You have very severe pain or fever (typically at the first outbreak)
• You have genital herpes and have difficulty sitting or moving normally
• You have herpes in the eye – which should always be evaluated by a doctor
• You work closely with vulnerable people (e.g. infants, recent surgery or immunocompromised people)

How to take care of yourself – and your colleagues

1. Use a good herpes cream

For cold sores on the lip, a herpes cream or gel can protect the skin and reduce discomfort. QUR herpes gel is an effective choice, as it both relieves your discomfort and ensures that your outbreak does not last long. The gel is transparent and supports the healing of the skin - without perfume or chemical additives.

2. Avoid touching the wound

And if you do: Wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. Use a plaster or wound protection if you have cold sores and work closely with people.

3. Take breaks if you need to

A flare-up can be energy-draining – especially in the first few days. Listen to your body and take short breaks or shorter work days if possible.
What about medicine?
If you have frequent outbreaks or if the outbreak is particularly bothersome, you can talk to your doctor about antiviral treatment. However, for many people, having an effective care product, such as QUR herpes gel, ready at home or in their bag is enough.

Conclusion

You can generally go to work with herpes – even during an outbreak. Herpes is not transmitted through casual contact, and with good hygiene and proper care, there is no need to isolate yourself. However, if you have severe symptoms, eye herpes or work with particularly vulnerable people, you should have an additional assessment – ​​possibly in consultation with a doctor.