Herpes Simplex Virus

Name: Herpes Simplex Virus
SKU: 359463
Availability: InStock

$10.00

Course Overview

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infection is one of the most common viral diseases encountered by healthcare providers worldwide and represents a significant concern within dentistry due to its oral and perioral manifestations, potential for cross-infection, and lifelong latency. Every dental team member is likely to treat or interact with patients who harbor HSV, whether they present with visible lesions or are asymptomatic carriers. Because the virus can be transmitted through saliva and aerosols, oral-health professionals must recognize lesions, understand modes of transmission, and implement infection-control measures to protect themselves and their patients.

HSV exists in two main types. HSV-1 is typically associated with oral and facial infections, while HSV-2 is more often linked to genital disease. However, overlap between the two types has become common, largely due to changes in social behavior and exposure routes. The virus establishes lifelong latency within sensory neurons and can reactivate intermittently, producing recurrent lesions that may be precipitated by stress, sunlight, trauma, or dental procedures.

This course provides an in-depth review of HSV biology, epidemiology, clinical features, and its direct relevance to dental practice. Participants will learn to recognize early and recurrent infections, apply evidence-based management strategies, and integrate preventive protocols aligned with current CDC and OSHA standards. Special emphasis is placed on identifying patients at risk, preventing occupational exposure, and counseling patients regarding recurrence prevention and oral-hygiene maintenance.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

Describe the molecular structure and replication cycle of HSV-1 and HSV-2.
Discuss global epidemiology, common transmission routes, and population risk factors.
Recognize oral and extra-oral manifestations of both primary and recurrent HSV infection.
Differentiate HSV lesions from other vesiculoulcerative oral conditions.
Explain latency, triggers for viral reactivation, and mechanisms of asymptomatic shedding.
Identify appropriate antiviral and supportive therapies used in dental and medical settings.
Apply comprehensive infection-control measures that minimize risk of cross-infection in dental environments.
Develop treatment-modification plans for immunocompromised and pediatric patients with HSV.
Integrate patient-education principles to promote prevention and early intervention.

Categories: $19, CEU Courses, Online CEU Courses

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Learning Objectives

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

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