What is the most common age group affected by herpetic whitlow?

Herpetic whitlow is most commonly associated with young children, particularly those who may be exposed to the herpes simplex virus through direct contact, such as from a caregiver or through oral herpes lesions. This condition presents as painful sores on the fingers or around the nails, often arising from the virus being transmitted via breaks in the skin. Young children are particularly vulnerable due to their frequent hand-to-mouth behaviors and their developing immune systems.

While older adults can also contract herpetic whitlow, they are less likely to be the most frequently affected group compared to young children. Infants and teenagers are also at risk, but the primary incidence of herpetic whitlow occurs in young children, primarily due to their social behaviors and close contact with infected individuals.