Oh this is a very sad story and luckily fairly rare. Considering about 80% of the population are infected with HSV1 (coldsores) many many bubs would have a degree of immunity from their mother. it is just unfortunate that baby Mira's mum had her first outbreak at this time.
I never thought I'd say it but it makes me glad that I got my first coldsore about 10 years ago because at least now I know my bub will have a degree of immunity. It is also important to note that you can get coldsores not only on your lips. Someone I know of gets them on their hand, My first ever outbreak was on my cheek of all things. And as Renstar said those who are infected with the virus can actually shed it from time to time without even having a coldsore. It's fairly rare but it does happen.
I guess utmost hygiene is the key here, especially where young bubs are concerned.
Sorry to get off track here but it also makes me think about CMV. This is another virus that is related to the herpes family. When adults get it, it usually causes nothing more than flu like symptoms. It is another very common virus but if the mother gets her first infection in pregnancy then it can cause brain damage and deafness to the unborn baby. I knew nothing about this virus until my friends premmie baby had gotten it. Small children who have the virus in their system excrete it in their urine so it is very very important for pregnant women who already have a baby/toddler to wash hands thoroughly after changing a nappy as CMV can be excreted in urine for months or even years. And like I said it is commonly just mistaken for the flu so many many adults and young children have already had this virus. And sorry, don't mean to freak anyone out but it's another one to be weiry of.
Last edited by ~mamaspice~; October 31st, 2008 at 01:28 PM.
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