Sorry this is a morbid topic...
I'm currently 37+5 with my 3rd baby, and just recently I've read a few news stories about the dangers of the herpes/cold sore virus to newborn babies. I wasn't so aware of this with my previous babies so it didn't worry me, but I've read some heart breaking stories recently of newborns who contracted the virus from people touching or kissing the baby and died :( And the advice seems to be not letting many people hold or touch your newborn baby, but I imagine this could be awkward with family members who would be offended?? The main reason I'm worrying is almost all my family members are prone to cold sores, all 4 grandparents and even my husband who gets it on his nose from time to time, but I've never had one (does that make me immune??) I was just wondering if anyone has any advice on limiting contact with the baby without causing offense?? I know the grandparents will want to hold the baby the minute they visit in hospital, and it's natural for them to touch and kiss the baby, but I'm becoming quite anxious about it! I'd read the suggestion of asking everyone to wash their hands first, but I think I'd sound like a looney if I asked everyone to wash their hands before they touch my baby! Especially as I didn't do it with my previous babies. I'm sure it's actually quite rare for babies to catch this virus, but it's still worrying me!