Neonatal Herpes

Neonatal herpes is a rare but potentially life-threatening infection in newborns caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV), usually transmitted during vaginal delivery if the mother has an active genital herpes infection.

Although uncommon, neonatal herpes requires urgent medical attention due to the risk of severe complications, including:

• Skin, eye, and mouth infections

• Central nervous system involvement (encephalitis)

• Disseminated infection affecting multiple organs

Symptoms in newborns may include:

• Skin blisters

• Fever or lethargy

• Poor feeding

• Irritability

• Seizures in severe cases

The risk of transmission is highest when a mother acquires HSV late in pregnancy or has active lesions at delivery.

Prevention strategies include:

• Screening and monitoring during pregnancy

• Antiviral therapy in late pregnancy for known HSV infection

• Cesarean delivery if active genital lesions are present

Early diagnosis and treatment with intravenous antiviral therapy (e.g., acyclovir) significantly improve outcomes.

While neonatal herpes is serious, it is rare, and proper prenatal care greatly reduces risk.