Viral Skin Infections

Infections are a surprisingly common occurrence on the skin, and can affect individuals at any age. At The Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center in Wilmington, NC, our team of board-certified dermatologists are experienced in identifying and treating all varieties of skin infections to help eliminate symptoms, minimize discomfort, and get patients back to doing the things they enjoy most.

 

What is a Viral Skin Infection?

 

Viral skin infections are a broad medical category encompassing a wide variety of conditions caused by a virus (rather than a bacteria or other organism). This type of skin infection can be a reaction from a virus inside the body (systemic infection) or an infection of the skin itself (cutaneous infection).

 

Viral skin infections can range from mild to severe, common to rare, and self-limited to highly contagious, depending on the type of infection.

 

What are Some Common Types of Viral Skin Infections?

 

There are many types of viral skin infections, too numerous to list here. But to help you get a better idea of what a viral skin infection is, here are some common types you’re more likely to come across:  

 

  • Chickenpox 
  • Shingles
  • Measles
  • Rubella
  • Fifth Disease
  • Roseola
  • Molluscum Contagiosum 
  • Warts
  • Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Viral Skin Infections FAQs

 

The more you know about viral skin infections, the better you can identify and treat them. Take a look at the most frequently asked questions regarding viral skin infections below.

Are all viral skin infections contagious?

Viral infections of the skin are often contagious, and the method the virus is passed may be different for different virus. Some may be passed by direct skin to skin contact while others may be transferred similar to the flu or common cold.

Can viral infections cause symptoms on the skin?

A viral infection may cause the skin to be itchy, feel burning or painful, or have no skin symptoms whatsoever.

Can a viral skin infection cause a skin rash?

Yes, a viral skin infection can cause a skin rash. Depending on the type of infection, a rash may be the first sign of an underlying viral infection. When it comes to viral rashes, there are two kinds — a ‘regular viral rash’ that is caused due to infection by viruses, and a ‘post viral rash’ that arises after the infection.

How can your board-certified dermatologists determine if a skin infection is viral or bacterial?

Usually, a board-certified dermatologist can identify and diagnose a skin infection simply by performing a good medical exam. At The Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center, our expert dermatologists can often identify the type of skin infection based on the appearance and location.

Viral Skin Infection Photos

 

Often it’s possible to identify a particular viral skin infection based on what it looks like and where it’s located. Thus, it can be helpful to look at visible symptoms of infections. Take a look at our viral skin infection photos below to get familiar with common types.

Find Diagnosis & Treatment for Viral Skin Infections in Wilmington, NC at The Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center

 

Suffering from a skin rash or infection that just won’t go away? Our board-certified dermatologists are here to help. Schedule an appointment for a complete examination and treatment plan. Contact our North Carolina office at 910-782-0028 or request an appointment online. We look forward to helping you find relief.