How does an infant get sputum herpes?

Answer 1

The only way to 'catch herpes' is to come in contact with the virus. If neither parent has tested positive - someone with an active case; sneezed, coughed or breathed the virus onto the baby. The baby, not yet having the immunity to fight the virus, developed an infection in her/his respiratory system.

A newborn's own immune system doesn't begins to function until he is 3 months old, this is why the new born easily becomes infected and can become quite ill, while an older child may be exposed at the same time and never show any symptoms.

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is usually associated with infections of the lips, mouth, or face. It is the most common type of herpes virus and it is found in up to 90% of all Americans. It is usually acquired in childhood between 6 months and 5 years of age. The transmission is generally via respiratory droplets (cough or sneeze) or direct contact. The virus enters the body through mucosal surfaces (mouth, nose, eyes) and in a new born can affect any part of the body.