HSV and babies

[Rosiejj5]

Hello.

im a new mum and feeling really anxious about my baby getting HSV or any kind of dangerous illness basically, however HSV is currently in the fore front of my mind. Constantly watching people around my baby to make sure they don’t have cold sores and then panicking if I see something on their lip just incase as I’ve read such horror stories. My question is, is it unreasonable of me to be this anxious about this or are other mums just as anxious? My other question is, if coldsores are so contagious and common, how come HSV is classed as rare?

tbank you!

Is HSV classed as rare? I've read about 70% of the population carries the herpes virus.
You are being totally OTT about it.
My dh gets cold sores but I've never had 1 and neither have my 2 children. I suppose we could be carriers but never had symptoms

I know that coldsores etc are really common but it says HSV in babies is rare which is why I’m so confused as to how HSV is rare. Il attach what it says on nhs

Neonatal herpes, which is rare in the UK, is caused by the herpes simplex virus. This virus is very common and causes cold sores and genital ulcers in adults. Neonatal herpes can be prevented by following some simple advice.

Maybe it's rare in babies as people tend to be more careful around them especially with an active cold sores. Do you get cold sores yourself? How many people will be kissing your baby? (Most likely way to pass it on i would think)

Not an expert but I believe neonatal herpes refers to babies born with HSV which is recognised within the first month of life e.g catching this from the birth canal.
I can totally understand why this may make you panicky but honestly as long as people aren’t kissing your baby on the mouth it will be fine. I’ve got two children neither of which have cold sores despite myself having them, if I have a flare I don’t kiss them and wash hands before changes etc.

Do you/ babies dad have HSV or suffer from coldsores? ❤️

If so, I'd be careful about kissing baby whilst you have one/ feel one coming.

Other close family/friends maybe just remind them not to kiss baby if you're so worries?

❤️

Hey @Rosiejj5 i was totally the same as you and tbh, still am even though my LO is nearly 2. I can’t make you feel better, just wanted you to know you’re not alone in your fears! I’m a little less anxious now LO is bigger… (but still pretty anxious!)