Yes, herpes can lead to death, but this is a very rare situation that mainly affects newborns or people with significantly weakened immune systems. For the vast majority of healthy adults, the virus is not life-threatening and only causes uncomfortable sores or blisters on the skin that heal with proper care.
The danger arises when the virus spreads beyond the skin and infects the brain or major organs, leading to severe conditions like viral encephalitis or liver failure. This is most common in babies who contract the virus during birth because their defenses are not yet fully developed, or in adults with conditions that suppress the immune system, such as those undergoing chemotherapy.
To prevent serious complications, it is essential to start antiviral treatment as soon as an outbreak is suspected. If a person with herpes experiences high fever, severe headache, confusion, or seizures, they should seek emergency medical attention immediately. It is important not to self-medicate, but to see a general practitioner or infectious disease specialist for the correct prescription and management. Learn more about cold sore medicine that your doctor can prescribe you for oral herpes.