Cold sores are relatively common and it is a sign that you are carrying the herpes simplex virus, a virus that is carried by approximately 85% of the population. Although cold sores can be uncomfortable and unsightly, they do not typically pose a problem… Unless they occur on a young baby.
Unfortunately, this mother did not know about the dangers. A child is unable to fight the virus prior to three months of age and it could be fatal. It is a good thing that somebody told her about the dangers and she was able to get the child to a hospital in time. The lesson learned is, if somebody has a cold sore, keep them away from your child!
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10207097809738910&set=a.1926244431082.109135.1091294407
Claire wrote:
Please share this with every new mum and pregnant woman you know… COLD SORES CAN BE FATAL FOR A BABY. Before 3 months old a baby cannot fight the herpes virus. If a baby contracts this it can cause liver and brain damage and lead to death. I know this sounds like I am scaremongering but if my friend had not told me about this my baby girl could have been very seriously ill. I noticed the signs early and got her to A&E, we have now been in hospital on a drip for 3 days and have got another 2 to go. She was VERY lucky, all her tests came back clear. The moral of the story is DO NOT let anyone kiss your newborns mouth, even if they don’t look like they have a cold sore- 85% of the population carry the virus. And if someone had a cold sore ask them to stay away until it has gone. Everyone who I have spoken to had not heard of this before and so I felt it was important to share Brooke’s story and raise awareness to stop anyone else going through what we have this week.
