Herpes simplex infection of the baby occurs during birth.

It is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). There are two types of HSV. 

Aetiology

• HSV type 1- in 20% of cases. 
• HSV type 2- in 80% of cases

Clinical features

Localised skin, mouth, eye infection in 30% of cases

Skin infections

• Group vesicles, pustules
• Generally occurs in the 3rd to  7th day of life

Eye infection

• Keratitis
• Chorioretinitis

Nervous system infections.

• Can occur up to 3 weeks from birth
• Presents  as encephalitis with seizures, irritability or lethargy

Investigations

• Viral culture- local secretions and blood
• Lumbar puncture with testing of cerebrospinal fluid, liver enzymes.

Treatment

• Hospitalisation
• Intravenous acyclovir for at least 2 weeks
• Ophthalmic examination

Prognosis

• Mortality can be up to 50% from Herpes infection