Cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). The virus can be dangerous for newborns, so active cold sores require extra care around a baby. The NHS specifically advises people with a current or recent cold sore not to kiss a baby. Read the NHS neonatal herpes guidance.
How to Protect Your Baby During an Outbreak
1. Do not kiss your baby
Avoid kissing your baby while you have an active or recently healing cold sore—especially near the mouth, nose or eyes.
2. Wash your hands carefully
Wash your hands before touching your baby and after touching your face, applying cold sore medication or handling anything that contacted the sore.
3. Avoid touching the cold sore
Do not pick at or touch the affected area. If contact occurs, wash your hands thoroughly before touching your baby or baby-care items.
4. Do not share personal items
Keep towels, cups, utensils, lip products and other personal items separate during an outbreak.
5. Keep the area covered when practical
A cold sore patch may help discourage accidental touching, but it does not eliminate the risk of transmission. Continue following careful hygiene and no-kissing precautions.
6. Know when to contact a doctor
Contact your pediatrician promptly if you believe your baby may have been exposed or develops blisters, fever, unusual sleepiness, poor feeding or other concerning symptoms. Early medical evaluation is important when neonatal herpes is suspected. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises contacting a doctor promptly when a newborn’s rash resembles herpes.
Supporting Your Own Routine
Rest, hydration, balanced nutrition and stress management can support your general health while caring for a baby.
Cold Sore Shield is a nutritional supplement designed for adults and provides daily support for normal immune function. It does not treat an active cold sore, prevent transmission or replace the precautions above. Never give Cold Sore Shield to an infant or child unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional.
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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.