Skip to main contentSkip to main content

Herpetic whitlow (whitlow finger)

Overview

Open all pages about Herpetic whitlow (whitlow finger)

Symptoms of herpetic whitlow include swelling, pain, blisters and sores on your finger.

Herpetic whitlow can be treated with antiviral tablets if you see a GP within 48 hours of your symptoms showing. If not, it will go away on its own.

You can ease the symptoms of herpetic whitlow with painkillers and by keeping your finger clean and covered.

Herpetic whitlow is caused by the herpes simplex virus. You can get it if you touch a cold sore or blister of another infected person.

Herpetic whitlow (whitlow finger) is an infection of the finger caused by the herpes virus. It can be treated but may come back.

Page last reviewed: 03/08/2023
Next review due: 03/08/2026