Neonatal Herpes

Neonatal herpes is a serious infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy, delivery, or shortly after birth. Unlike the common cold sores in adults, this infection can lead to severe health issues for newborns, including brain damage or even death. Symptoms may include irritability, poor feeding, and skin lesions. Newborns are most at risk if the mother has an active herpes outbreak during delivery. Immediate medical attention is crucial, and antiviral treatments can help manage the condition.