Herpes infection in newborns

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Herpes infection in newborns

On rare occasions, a newborn is infected with the herpes simplex virus (HSV) during delivery. This can result in serious health problems. An infected newborn's health problems are generally more severe when the infection affects several body systems.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following treatment for newborns with known or suspected HSV infection:¹

Infections involving the skin (a blisterlike rash), eyes, or mouth: intravenous (IV) acyclovir for 14 days
Infection involving internal organs, such as the liver, brain, or heart: intravenous (IV) acyclovir for 21 days

References

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Citations
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2002). Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines 2002 (CDC Publication Vol. 51, No. RR-6), pp. 12–17. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Credits

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Author	Sabra L. Katz-Wise
Author	Ralph Poore
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Denele Ivins
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
Last Updated	January 18, 2007

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Last updated:	January 18, 2007
Author:	Ralph Poore
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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