Viral infections Archive

Women on birth control who develop shingles may worry Valtrex could reduce protection. Find out if this antiviral impacts contraceptives.

Cold baths and ice packs may feel instinctive when a fever hits, but most cases call for a different approach.

Lingering ulcers can signal more than simple canker sores. Learn about possible triggers, related conditions, and who should evaluate you.

An elevated lymphocyte count usually indicates a simple viral illness. Less often, it could indicate a blood cancer. How the number is calculated shapes what it may mean.

The Epstein-Barr virus that causes mononucleosis (mono) usually infects people during their childhood or the teenage years. The virus stays with people for life.

Encephalitis, or brain inflammation, can cause symptoms ranging from mild, flu‑like illness to life‑threatening confusion and coma. Causes, recovery, and urgent treatments vary by virus.

Gastroenteritis isn’t true flu. But it is very contagious and can spread through germs on hands, food, and water.

A white area on the tongue can stem from dryness, irritation, infection, or an immune condition. If the patch is persistent, your doctor should take a closer look.

Elderberry syrup or tea may help reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms. But the evidence for these benefits is uncertain, since the studies are small and most did not compare elderberry to standard treatments. Claims that elderberry products can prevent viral infections or boost immunity are unproven. Elderberry supplements appear to be relatively safe; in clinical trials, effects such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea were mild and rare.