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Aciclovir timing — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateInfectionsAciclovir timingGPhC CRA

A 33-year-old woman asks for aciclovir because she has tingling and early vesicles consistent with recurrent genital herpes. Symptoms started this morning. She has had similar confirmed episodes before. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Early antiviral treatment is most useful when started during prodrome or soon after lesions appear

Antiviral treatment for recurrent herpes is most effective when started early, during prodromal symptoms or soon after lesions develop. It reduces episode duration but does not eradicate latent virus. The patient should receive sexual health advice and referral if diagnosis, pregnancy or severity raises concern.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS