Can a male be born with herpes?

Yes, a male can be born with herpes. Neonatal herpes is a rare but serious infection that can occur when a newborn baby contracts the herpes virus from their mother during childbirth. The virus can be transmitted if the mother has an active herpes infection, such as genital herpes, at the time of delivery.

Neonatal herpes can cause a range of symptoms in newborns, including skin lesions, blisters, fever, seizures, and neurological problems. In severe cases, it can be fatal. Treatment for neonatal herpes typically involves antiviral medications and supportive care.

To prevent neonatal herpes, pregnant women should be screened for herpes during pregnancy. If a woman is diagnosed with herpes during pregnancy, she will be closely monitored and may be prescribed antiviral medications to reduce the risk of transmission to her baby.