Midlothian, IL
A 26-year-old male asked:
Saw something on tv today about herpes infection killing babies. is this complete lies? i thought herpes was just a rash and not deadly at all?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in

Dr. James Fergusonanswered
Pediatrics 47 years experience
Reality bites: A baby born to a mother during her first herpes outbreak has a significant risk of developing herpes encephalitis and dying or ending up with severe brain damage. That risk drops significantly for recurrent outbreaks but some have c-section deliveries to avoid any risk. I've cared for these babies born to mothers who were not aware of the problem.A brain damaged baby is not what they wanted.
1.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Nov 6, 2018
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