“An Adult’s Kiss Nearly Lost Him His Eye” #how

Only parents should kiss their own children, especially newborns, due to the risk of viral infections, particularly herpes simplex virus (HSV). Newborns have immature immune systems, making them highly vulnerable to infections that may be mild in adults but potentially life-threatening for them.

HSV-1, the virus responsible for cold sores, can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. If a person with an active cold sore kisses a baby, the virus can spread, leading to neonatal herpes, a serious condition that can cause fever, seizures or organ failure. Unlike in adults, where HSV-1 typically causes only mouth sores, in newborns, it can spread rapidly and affect the brain (herpes encephalitis) or vital organs.

To protect newborns:

No one outside the parents should kiss the baby, especially on the face or hands.
Anyone with an active cold sore should stay away from the baby until fully healed.
Strict handwashing and hygiene should be followed by anyone handling the baby.
While it may seem harmless, a simple kiss from the wrong person can have devastating consequences for a newborn’s health.

#children #parenting #health