Hi - I am a 47 year old woman and have had HSV1 (33 years) and HSV2 (25 years). I also have Fibromyalgia. I have had two "classic" whitlow outbreaks over the last 3 years (acquired accidentally while wiping acyclovir off my pinky finger -- got into the space between nail bed and finger). These "classic" outbreaks both formed what looked like a blister under the skin -- though there always appeared to be a thick layer of skin over the blister. Last month, during an extremely stressful time, my pinky and ring finger both swelled, had prodome feeling, but no blister. I upped my suppressive dose of Valtrex and covered fingers with bandaids and zinc oxide. However, this was not before I scratched some bug bites with that hand. Since that time, I have experienced burning pain and swelling in both hands. Occasionally a raised papule arises (like on wrist), but disappears pretty promptly. I also appear to be getting a flare of eczema. I'm concerned that I've spread herpes all over through the use of lotion and sunscreen. On the other hand, I've read that the virus can't effectively emerge through thick skin (like on the hand). I'd like to not panic about holding hands with my kids (already use gloves for any personal care of them). Any insight that might help in this situation? Thanks so much - you are performing a great service!