Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV):
A parent's guide for infants and babies

Herpes simplex virus infections in newborns are usually the result of the virus being passed from mother to infant during the baby's delivery and can be very severe, usually resulting in death, even with treatment. Initial signs of an infection may not be present right at birth; they could appear 1–4 weeks later.

Less commonly, infants with a herpes simplex virus infection can become infected by a caregiver through a non-genital route (eg, the caregiver with the virus kissing the child). These infections are far less severe in nature and usually result in sores on the mouth or lips of the infant.