There are two types of herpes viruses which can affect infants and children--herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2). In most cases HSV-1 is not considered dangerous and requires little or no treatment. The same cannot be said, however, for HSV-2, also known as genital herpes. While rare, HSV-2 infection in infants is life-threatening. Knowing the symptoms and seeking medical attention can literally mean the difference between life and death.
HSV-1
Herpes simplex virus 1 appears as cold sores, blisters or ulcers in the mouth and around the lips. Although painful, symptoms generally resolve themselves within five days and do not require treatment. In infants, HSV-1 can cause irritability and pain, followed by decreased appetite thanks to the discomfort of having painful ulcers in and around the mouth. Because of pain and difficulty swallowing, parents need to be on the lookout for signs of dehydration, which can occur when infants refuse to drink.
HSV-2 Skin Symptoms
When herpes simplex 2, or genital herpes, is passed from mother to infant, the most visible symptoms are easy to recognize. They include rash-type welts or marks most likely to appear on a part of the baby's skin where skin trauma occurred. It is not uncommon, however, for these infants to have skin lesions spread to other parts of their body.
Other HSV-2 Symptoms
As HSV-2 progresses during the second and third week of a newborn's life, symptoms will include fever, seizures, difficulty breathing, lethargy and irritability. Without immediate medical treatment, Herpesdiagnosis.com writes that infants with these symptoms can die or at minimum suffer irreparable brain and central nervous system damage.
