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May 21, 2013
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Herpes Infection in Newborns


Herpes Infection in Newborns

In rare cases, 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 rash that looks like blisters), 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

Citations

  1. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2010). Genital HSV infections. Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines 2010 (CDC Publication Vol. 59, No. RR-12), pp. 20–25. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Available online: http://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment/2010/STD-Treatment-2010-RR5912.pdf.

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerSarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerJeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
Last RevisedDecember 21, 2010

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

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