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Many viral infections cause skin rashes or sores. They include measles, chickenpox, and herpes. Specific skin infections caused by viruses include:
- Warts: Raised, round skin growths that can spread to other parts of the body, and, in some cases, to other people. Warts are not usually painful, except when located on the feet. Most warts go away over time without treatment.
- Cold sores: Small blisters around the mouth that last up to two weeks. Outbreaks can be triggered by sun, wind, or illness. These are caused by a type of herpes virus. The virus can’t be cured, but it may not cause symptoms for long periods. It can spread to other people.
- Molluscum contagiosum: Causes small, pink, or flesh-colored bumps. These bumps usually clear up over time. This infection is most common in children and adolescents, although it can affect adults. It is mildly contagious. The virus usually is spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.
- Shingles: A common viral infection of the nerves that causes a painful rash of small blisters. Even after the rash goes away, the pain can continue for months, even years. Shingles is more common in people who have a weak immune system and in people older than age 50.
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