Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common initial symptom of herpes simplex infection?

1. Cold sores

2. Fever

3. Conjunctivitis

4. Blurred vision

The correct answer is: Fever

The common initial symptom of a herpes simplex infection is often characterized by the development of cold sores, which are fluid-filled blisters that typically appear around the lips and mouth. These lesions are caused by the herpes simplex virus, mainly HSV-1, and serve as a hallmark sign of this viral infection. While fever can accompany herpes simplex virus infections, particularly during the primary outbreak or if the patient is experiencing a systemic response, cold sores remain the most recognizable and common initial symptom. Fever indicates a broader systemic response to infection and is not as specific to herpes simplex as cold sores. Other symptoms may develop as the infection progresses, but the initial manifestation is typically localized to the oral area as cold sores.