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Newborns Vulnerable: The Deadly Risk of Cold Sores
20 Oct
Summary
- HSV can cause life-threatening illness in newborns with undeveloped immune systems.
- Doctor urges a strict 'no kissing' rule for newborns with active cold sores.
- Neonatal herpes is rare but potentially very serious, affecting organs or the brain.
The herpes simplex virus (HSV), commonly known for causing cold sores, presents a severe danger to newborns. Unlike adults, infants possess underdeveloped immune systems, making them highly susceptible to life-threatening complications from HSV. A recent alert from an NHS GP emphasizes the critical need for vigilance, particularly around newborns.
Medical professionals are strongly advising a strict "no kissing" policy for newborns. This guideline extends to anyone, including older children, who may have an active cold sore. The virus, HSV-1, spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, such as kissing, and can also transfer via shared items.
Neonatal herpes, while rare, is a potentially fatal condition. It can manifest in various ways, affecting the skin, eyes, mouth, or central nervous system, and in severe cases, can spread to multiple organs. Around 10% of neonatal HSV infections are acquired after birth, often through contact with an active cold sore.
Parents and caregivers are urged to be aware of the early warning signs in infants, which can include unusual fussiness, poor feeding, and low-grade fever, even before visible sores appear. If a young baby shows signs of illness such as lethargy, fever, breathing difficulties, or seizures, urgent medical attention is paramount.
