How to Recognize Signs That a Newborn Contracted Herpes During Birth

Newborn babies often contract the herpes simplex virus (HSV-2) from their mothers through direct contact when their mothers have an active infection in the genital area. In addition, babies can contract the virus through being kissed by someone who has a herpes blister (HSV-1) or infection. The herpes virus can be passed even when the infection is inactive. Women with an open herpes sore are most often discouraged from giving birth vaginally due to the risk it poses to the baby. Babies exposed to the herpes virus are at risk of serious illness and even death.

Instructions

• 1

  Look for a rash that is purplish in color. This may be the first sign of infection in a newborn baby. Herpes may show up on newborn babies anywhere they might have had contact with a herpes sore. If they contracted the virus from vaginal birth, symptoms of herpes might occur on the area where they first had contact. For instance, if they came out head first, it may show up on there.

• 2

  Monitor the baby's temperature. A high fever may be a sign of the herpes virus. Children with the HSV infection may develop a fever over 100 degrees. They might also appear irritable and be fidgety when held. They might also appear sick and not be eating much. A newborn with a herpes infection might also experience seizures.

• 3

  Watch for symptoms of the virus that include red and raised areas on the skin. Small blisters that contain a clear liquid may appear in clusters. These will burst and form a scab. Get to a doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. Herpes in newborns can appear in the mouth, nose, eyes and oral and anal cavities. Sores might also show up anywhere else where the body was exposed.