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Herpes labialis counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyInfectionsHerpes labialis counsellingGPhC CRA

A 40-year-old man asks for aciclovir cream for a cold sore. He started tingling 18 hours ago, has a small vesicle on the lip and is otherwise well. What would you advise the patient?

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

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Correct answer: D — Apply aciclovir cream early and avoid kissing while lesions are active

Topical aciclovir is most useful when started at the prodrome or early lesion stage. The patient should avoid kissing and sharing items that contact the lesion while infectious. Referral is needed for severe, frequent, immunocompromised or ocular involvement.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS