Painful, superficially asymptomatic skin is likely to be an early stage of herpes zoster and possibly herpes simplex, depending on where on the skin this symptom occurs. If it occurs confined to a certain point or a limited kind of area, herpes simplex is more likely, especially around the lips, nose, and external genital area, which is likely to be early stage of herpes simplex. However, if it appears on the lower back, legs, arms, or chest and back, herpes zoster is more likely. Aggressive antiviral treatment is needed at this time, and the usual antiviral treatment can be given orally using acyclovir and valacyclovir tablets.