Concern Over Baby's Exposure to Cold Sores
I have a 9-month-old son who weighs 25 pounds and is generally healthy. He was born at 38 weeks, and previously dealt with laryngomalacia, which has since resolved. He is currently undergoing physiotherapy for torticollis. Recently, my baby was kissed on the cheek by someone experiencing a substantial cold sore outbreak. This was particularly alarming to me, as I’m cautious about who can come in contact with my child, to the point where I don’t even allow my parents to kiss him. About ten minutes after the kiss, my husband made sure to wash our baby's face thoroughly. This occurred exactly one week ago. I find myself worried about the likelihood of my baby developing an illness or contracting the herpes simplex virus. Are there specific symptoms I should monitor? Would it be wise to consult a doctor just to be safe? Any advice would be greatly appreciated, as I'm dealing with postpartum anxiety and this incident feels like a significant setback in my recovery. So far, I haven't observed any lesions or alarming symptoms. Additionally, my baby is currently teething with six teeth coming in at once, which makes it challenging to discern whether any discomfort he shows might be related to the cold sore incident or just the teething process. Thank you for your support and insights.
Answers (1)
4/4/2025, 8:10:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to be concerned about your baby’s exposure to a cold sore, especially given the context of postpartum anxiety. Here are the main points to focus on:
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Risk of Infection: While the herpes simplex virus (HSV) can be transmitted through close contact, significant measures were taken (washing your baby's face) shortly after the exposure, which reduces the risk of infection.
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Symptoms to Monitor: After exposure to HSV, symptoms in infants can take 2 to 12 days to appear. If your baby does contract the virus, you might notice:
- Fever
- Irritability or unusual fussiness
- Decreased appetite
- Oral lesions or sores, particularly around the mouth
- Any signs of lethargy or unusual behavior
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Teething Symptoms: While teething can cause discomfort and other symptoms, such as drooling and fussiness, keep an eye out for any symptoms that seem out of the ordinary or persist beyond typical teething signs.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch for any unusual behaviors or symptoms over the next week. Documenting any changes can help in assessing his condition.
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Maintain Hygiene: Continue practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing for anyone interacting with your baby and avoiding close contact with individuals who have active cold sores.
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Consult a Doctor: Given your existing concern and postpartum anxiety, it may be reassuring to contact your healthcare provider for peace of mind. They can offer guidance specific to your situation and may suggest an in-person evaluation if any concerning symptoms develop.
Remember, it's normal to feel anxious after such incidents, especially when it comes to the health of your child. You’re doing a great job in protecting your son, and monitoring symptoms will help ensure his well-being. Please don’t hesitate to reach out again if you need more support or information.
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