to visit a newborn baby when I have a raging coldsore?

[RevoltingPeasant]

Just that, really.

I am prone to them and they flare up every few months. Obviously treat with Zovirax and similar, but basically, you just have to wait for them to go away.

A friend gave birth and her DD is 2 weeks old now. I was due to visit her today but unsure now: is it okay if I wash my hands first and don't hold her? I know they are very contagious but it's only through contact, right?

Or should I cancel? Really looking forward to seeing LO but don't want to infect her with herpes virus.....!

I think that's best, then you are putting the ball in her court.

Great email, balls totally in her court to say 'come' if she is going up the wall. If she gets cold sores herself I imagine she'll be fairly relaxed (I am, anyway).

Hope you get to see the baby soon, FWIW going to see a baby and not getting snuggles is rubbish so probs best to wait anyway!

I don't know much about them and we were told we were quite relaxed with our pfb, as we never insisted on hand gels or washing and let people hold hr - I assume people are capable of keeping their hands clean unprompted - but I'd be uncomfortable with something infectious. I'd prefer you to visit when it's cleared up, maybe chat on the phone today.

Oh, I'm not concerned for her - she just finds mat leave a bit depressing. Saw the baby last week, actually - but this is the first day she's on her own, is all. tbh I'm not a big baby person and mostly just wanted to catch up with friend - I've missed her! She had a crash section so is not v mobile yet and can't get out with the baby much.

I wouldn't chance a visit to a newborn with a coldsore .

I know a little girl who caught coldsores as a baby , at around 12 months she had a massive attack and the virus went into her brain . The girl is now severely disabled and is In a wheelchair , she can't talk , she can't walk or move . She can smile and make noise , but that's about it .

droves just to say thanks for your post- following it, I googled 'coldsores and newborn babies' and there are some total horror stories! Ick. Deffo not going. Mum says fine but she misses me :) Bless!

Thanks all.