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Why Do Some Viruses Cause
Rashes and Other Skin
Problems?

Viral infections cause a whole host of symptoms, including stomach upset, respiratory effects, and skin problems. In fact, a number of viruses are known to cause rashes and other types of skin problems, which can lead to discomfort and increase the contagiousness of the virus.

What Types of Viral Infections Can Cause Skin Problems?

The following viruses are associated with various skin issues:

  • Herpes
  • Chickenpox
  • Epstein-Barr virus
  • Monkeypox
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Rubella (German measles)

Certain viruses cause rashes (exanthems), which can develop all over the body. Other viral infections cause blisters to form, which is the case with cold sores and genital herpes.

Lesions May Help Viruses Spread

Viruses are complex, and while the medical field has made many amazing advances when it comes to treating viral infections, research continues to better understand these tiny organisms and their substantial health effects.

In terms of the physiological effects that viruses cause on skin, infections in the body cause damage to numerous areas, including skin cells. However, this mechanism also increases the spread of certain viruses, as any person who comes into contact with the rash or blisters has a chance of acquiring the infection.

They Also Show That the Body Is Fighting Infection

There are many types of viruses and an equally wide variety of viral rashes that go along with them. With some infections, skin issues are merely an indication that the immune system is fighting off the illness. In this case, rashes and blisters result from the inflammation process that occurs alongside one’s immune response.

 
 
 

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