Herpes simplex virus comes in two forms, oral herpes and genital herpes, each of which can infect an infant. Up to 1,200 to 1,500 new genital herpes infections occur in newborns each year, according to the March of Dimes website. If your baby has sores on his mouth and a fever, contact your pediatrician immediately. Your baby may need immediate medical treatment.
Types of Herpes
Herpes simplex 1 is the less serious form. This virus affects the mouth and causes cold sores inside the mouth or on the lips. Your baby may get sores in the mouth or on her lips from this infection. Herpes simplex 2 is the virus that causes genital herpes. If your infant has herpes simplex 2, she may have sores on her genitals or in her mouth, as well as other symptoms such as rapid breathing, low body temperature, poor feeding or seizures. This virus is very serious and can be life-threatening if it goes untreated.
Causes
Herpes simplex 1 is caused by contact with the saliva of an infected person, such as when an infected person kisses the baby, whether they have active sores or not. Herpes simplex 2 is transmitted by an infected mother, usually when the baby is delivered vaginally, if the mother has an active infection. The obstetrician will usually take steps to prevent a woman with an active herpes outbreak from giving birth vaginally, but sometimes the mother is unaware of her condition.
Treatment
Babies with herpes infections of either type are given medicine such as Acyclovir intravenously. Herpes is a virus and, as of 2011, it can't be cured. However, these medications might eliminate or ease some of the side effects. If the baby is very ill with herpes simplex 2, or genital herpes, he may have to receive his treatment in the intensive care unit so the hospital staff can monitor him for signs of shock or seizures.
When to Consult Your Pediatrician
If you notice fluid-filled blisters, called vesicles, inside the mouth, on the lips or on the genitals of your baby, contact your pediatrician immediately. If the vesicle is accompanied by other symptoms, your child's condition may be very serious and you should seek emergency medical care. Protect yourself and the rest of your family by washing your hands thoroughly before and after touching any infected areas on your baby, yourself or anyone else to prevent the infection from spreading.
