04/16/2026
Health officials are tracking a contagious herpes outbreak that can appear as a ring-shaped rash, often mistaken for eczema, ingrown hairs, chafing, or other common skin irritations.
The virus spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, including s*xual contact, and can also pass via shared towels, bedding, or clothing. This makes it easy for partners to unknowingly transmit the infection back and forth.
Unlike typical skin infections, this herpes strain may not respond to standard topical treatments. Some patients require prescription antiviral medications for several weeks before symptoms fully resolve.
Symptoms include red circular rashes, itching, burning, and soreness, most commonly appearing on the stomach, inner thighs, groin, buttocks, or face.
Medical experts advise avoiding intimate contact and not sharing personal items until the infection is completely cleared. Anyone with a spreading rash that does not improve with basic treatment should seek medical evaluation promptly.
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