The herpes simplex virus usually causes skin infections and is the common cause of cold sores; the virus is carried by up to 85 per cent of the population and although it usually lies dormant when active it is very contagious and can be passed on by physical contact.
There are two different types of the herpes virus and both attack the skin and mucous membranes
HSV-1 is the most common form and usually appears as a cold sore on the mouth and lips. HSV-2 affects the genitals. For both types, at least two thirds of infected people show no signs of the symptoms or have symptoms so mild they go unnoticed. However, both types can recur and spread even when no symptoms are present.
There is a risk that you can pass the HSV infection to your baby during pregnancy / during the birth. This is known as neonatal herpes and can cause your baby to be seriously ill. This is more of an issue if you have genital herpes. But if you have any symptoms of a HSV infection or cold sores for the first time when you are pregnant, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy, you should seek medical advice.
Babies are most at risk from this virus during the first six weeks of their life because of their poor immunity. Newborns can become very sick very quickly with a high fever and seizures, and may become lethargic. Therefore do not let family and friends kiss your baby on or near the mouth during the first few weeks of his or her life, this might sound extreme but it is safer than running the risk of your newborn baby contracting the herpes virus.
Premature Babies and Newborns with HSV require hospitalisation for intravenous antiviral medication for approximately 21 days. Even with this treatment, some newborns can suffer death or brain damage from HSV infection.