What causes viral skin infections?

Viral skin infections are caused by different types of viruses. These viruses infect people in different ways - often through direct contact with sores or skin containing the virus. Viruses need a host, such as a person, in order to survive and reproduce; they take over cells in the body, which then make copies of the virus. As the body responds to the viral infection, certain symptoms, such as fever, rash, or sores may result.