Neonatal herpes (herpes in a newborn baby)
What are the warning signs in babies?
Because newborn babies have underdeveloped immune systems, they can quickly become seriously ill after catching the virus.
A newbornbaby infected with herpes may:
- become lacking in energy (listless) and sleepy
- stop feeding
- be floppy
- have a high temperature (fever) find out how to take your baby's temperature
- have a high-pitched cry
- have breathing difficulties or start grunting
- breath rapidly
- have a blue tongue and skin (cyanosis)
- have a rash
The baby's health can deteriorate quickly if the virus spreads to their brain or other parts of their body.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
NHS Choices information on neonatal herpes (herpes in newborn babies), with links to other useful resources.
How doesa newborn baby catch herpes?
During pregnancy and labour A newborn babyis at risk of catching herpes ifthe mother had genital herpes for the first time within the last six weeks of her pregnancy. There's a risk the mother will
What are the warning signs in babies?
Because newborn babies have underdeveloped immune systems, they can quickly become seriously ill after catching the virus. A newbornbaby infected with herpes may: become lacking in energy (listless
Whatshould you do if you think your baby has it?
Contact your GPor midwife as soon as possible if your baby has any of the above symptoms and you're worried. You may be advised to take your baby to your nearest accident and emergency department . N
How serious is herpes for a baby?
Sometimes neonatal herpes will only affect the baby's eyes, mouth or skin. In these cases, most babies will make a complete recovery with antiviral treatment. However, the condition is much more seri
How can neonatal herpes be prevented?
If you're pregnant and have a history of genital herpes, tell your doctor or midwife.You may need to take medication during thelast month of pregnancy to prevent an outbreak of vaginal sores during la
Support and advice if you've been affected
You may find these resources helpful: Cold sores Genital herpes Sands World Health Organization (WHO): herpes simplex virus
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