title: Preventing neonatal transmission of herpes simplex virus.
abstract: Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections are highly prevalent and may have devastating consequences if transmitted to newborns. The highest risk of transmission is when the mother has primary HSV infection (rather than recurrence of chronic infection) late in pregnancy. Clinicians should obtain a careful history, performing serologic testing and counseling as appropriate. Delayed diagnosis of neonatal HSV is associated with high mortality. Even with adequate treatment, permanent sequelae, such as cerebral palsy and developmental delay, may occur. Clinicians should develop prudent strategies to avoid primary HSV acquisition during pregnancy, and provide prophylaxis or treatment when indicated.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina 29425–7520, USA.
authors.forename: Oluwatosin
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Jaiyeoba
authors.forename: Michelle I
authors.initials: MI
authors.lastname: Amaya
authors.forename: David E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Soper
authors.forename: J Michael
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Kilby
mesh_terms: D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001942:Breast Feeding; D005260:Female; D005322:Premature Rupture of Fetal Membranes; D006558:Herpes Genitalis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000635:transmission; D006561:Herpes Simplex / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000635:transmission; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D018445:Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011251:Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / Q000628:therapy*; D047928:Premature Birth / Q000517:prevention & control; D018139:Simplexvirus
chemical_list: D000998:Antiviral Agents