**Core Concept:** Corneal sensation is a component of the sensory system in the eye, specifically mediated by Aβ and Aδ sensory fibers. Infectious diseases can affect the sensory function of the cornea, leading to loss of sensation.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common ocular infection that can lead to loss of corneal sensation due to destruction of sensory neurons and their terminals. HSV primarily affects Aβ and Aδ sensory fibers, resulting in the characteristic clinical presentation of herpetic keratitis with painful erosions and a history of recurrent oral or genital herpes.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

A. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is the correct answer, as it is the virus responsible for causing loss of corneal sensation in herpetic keratitis.
B. Herpes zoster virus (HSV) is incorrect because it causes herpes zoster, a dermatomal infection, not specifically affecting the cornea.
C. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is another virus that can cause ocular infections, but it is less likely to cause loss of corneal sensation compared to HSV.
D. Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is responsible for chickenpox and shingles but is less likely to cause loss of corneal sensation compared to HSV.

**Clinical Pearl:** Corneal sensation loss in an infectious disease should raise suspicion for HSV infection, particularly if there is a history of recurrent oral or genital herpes. Early initiation of antiviral therapy can prevent significant corneal scarring and blindness in these cases.