Women with herpes simplex, whether type 1 or type 2, sometimes give birth to babies who are infected with the virus. Neonatal herpes is relatively rare, but it is associated with very serious complications, including death and permanent disability. The symptoms of neonatal herpes are usually very noticeable.
Fetal Infection
Very rarely, a baby may contract herpes before birth. When this occurs, the baby will often be born with an abnormally small head and classic signs of infection, including skin lesions.
Early Signs
A newborn who contracts herpes during delivery will often have a bright red skin rash, difficulty breathing, lethargy, inflammation of the eyes and irritability.
Later Symptoms
Neonatal herpes may progress and cause infection of the brain and nervous system, causing a swollen fontanel (soft spot), seizures, fever and permanent organ damage.
Post-Birth Infection
A newborn may contract herpes days or weeks after birth if an adult with oral herpes simplex 1 (cold sores) kisses the baby. These infections are usually local and not as severe as those contracted during delivery.
Prevention
Mothers who contract herpes during pregnancy are much more likely to transmit the virus during delivery. Most doctors will prescribe surgical birth for women with active herpes outbreaks.
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